Acoustic PhD opportunities

PhD alumni Lauren Ward working for BBC R&D on a pioneering accessible version of Casuality during lockdown. Read more about this project on the BBC R&D blog.

The Acoustics Research Centre has a thriving student population studying a doctoral program. A research degree, such as a doctorate or masters by research, gives you an opportunity to explore an area of acoustics or audio that you find particularly interesting. The research challenge is usually to discover new science through measurement, prediction and developing an in-depth understanding of the subject.

We have two doctoral centres that have funded PhD positions:

LAURA: The Leverhulme Trust Aural Diversity Doctoral Research Hub provides funded inter-disciplinary PhD and Masters training in the study of hearing and listening differences.
EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Sound Futures is a collaboration between 4 universities and over 50 project partners.

Below is a webinar recording where staff discuss:

Possible topics for PhDs (but also see suggested PhD Acoustics project titles and descriptions)
Questions applicants have about studying for research degrees. Please also see our extensive FAQ for Acoustics Research Applicants.

In this extended webinar, staff talk about topics in acoustics for research and answer common Qs applicants have

This central University page gives practical information about a PhD, MPhil or Master by Research in Acoustics and Audio Engineering, including start dates, entry requirements, fees etc.
Applicants need to prepare a research proposal, here is the guidance for that.

Next steps towards a doctorate or other research degree in acoustics

Look at our extensive FAQ which answers questions such as what background you need, what is studying for a PhD like, what jobs our graduates do, etc.
Find out if we carry out research in areas of acoustics, audio, vibration and noise engineering that interest you by browsing these pages or looking at our publications.
Email a members of staff who does research in the right area along with a brief CV. If you don’t have a definite funding source, detail what you are doing about this. Please only email one member of staff at a time to avoid us duplicating work.
If you are unsure who to contact, email the director of the Acoustics Research Centre
Consult and follow the formal application procedure. This includes details about the information and documents you will need as well as guidance about submitting your application.