PhD Studentship: Acoustic Metamaterial Absorbers

Be a part of a new and exciting field emerging within Acoustical Engineering and contribute to making our world less noisy and more sustainable! Applications are invited for a fully-funded 3.5 year PhD studentship working on the next generation of highly efficient sound absorbing materials. The studentship is open to UK nationals and international applicants.

You will join a world-leading research team based within the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) at the University of Southampton, a member of the Russell Group and ranked in the world’s top 100 Universities. The ISVR was founded in 1963 and is a dedicated Institute for teaching and research in acoustical engineering and audiology.

This PhD research project aims to study the effects and usefulness of non-linear phenomena related to acoustic waves in acoustic metamaterial absorbers. The non-linear effects could involve acoustically induced turbulence, surface effects (e.g. roughness), mechanical contact, etc., ultimately leading to ultra-thin and ultra-broadband absorbers that could be used in a wide range of applications to reduce noise. During your PhD, you will develop new analytical models and perform high-fidelity numerical simulations on the University’s high-performance computing cluster IRIDIS to analyse the performance of your absorber designs. You will validate your theoretical results in the high-end testing facilities available at the University of Southampton, such as one of the UK’s largest fully anechoic chambers or the brand-new aeroacoustic wind tunnel.

During your PhD you will be part of the Signal Processing, Audio and Hearing Group of the ISVR, together with a diverse group of over 30 other PhD students offering numerous social activities. A healthy work-life balance is promoted, for example by supporting a flexible work from home policy or offering discounted memberships within the University’s outstanding sports facilities. To present your research to a world-wide academic audience and develop your network, you will be supported with funds to travel to international conferences in the areas of sound, vibration, and metamaterials. You will be able to receive technical training by attending world-class modules offered within the University as well as international summer schools.

Motivated candidates with a proactive attitude, a strong drive to maintain a good balance between theory and experiment, and a very good degree in physics, acoustical engineering, aeronautical engineering, or related are encouraged to apply. Any experience in numerical modelling, aerodynamics, or acoustical measurements would be beneficial.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2023 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £17,668 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years. 

Applications should include:

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

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