Research into noise pollution, electric vehicles and the effects of climate change on school buildings will form part of a new intake of PhD projects led by the University of Salford.
Sixteen funded research places have been announced for September 2027 through the Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Sustainable Sound Futures.
The programme, run in partnership with the Universities of Bristol, Sheffield and Southampton, will investigate how sound affects people’s lives, from unwanted noise in homes to the development of new technologies.
Among the projects based in Salford, is research into how educational buildings can remain comfortable environments for learning as the climate changes.
Other projects will examine how sound and vibration could improve prosthetic devices and how the impact of environmental noise can be assessed.
The research forms part of a wider programme involving more than 50 external partners, including businesses and government organisations.
Current researchers are already examining issues affecting homes and transport.
Rebecca Hutt, who previously studied Electroacoustics at Salford, is working with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) to investigate the effects of noise from neighbouring properties.
Her research examines how people experience unwanted sound in their homes and why some individuals are affected differently from others.
Meanwhile, Edward Jackson, who completed an MSc in Acoustics at Salford, is working alongside Jaguar Land Rover to investigate materials that could reduce noise inside electric vehicles without adding unnecessary weight.
Professor Trevor Cox, Director of the Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Sound Futures said: “One of the greatest strengths of the Centre for Doctoral Training is the opportunity to learn as part of a wider community.
“Surrounded by researchers exploring diverse areas of acoustics and supported by leading academics and project partners, our PhD students gain deep expertise in their field as well as the broader skills, knowledge and connections that can shape their future career.
“We’re really looking forward to recruiting our next cohort of aspiring researchers through our funded PhD opportunities.”
The University of Salford has conducted acoustics research for more than 60 years, with work now carried out through its Acoustics Innovation Institute.
The latest intake will be the programme’s third cohort, with research also covering artificial intelligence, transport noise and accessibility.
The four-year PhD positions cover tuition fees, provide a tax-free living stipend and include financial support for research activities.
Applications are open to candidates from academic backgrounds including engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, psychology, environmental science and acoustics.
An online information webinar will take place on Monday 23 November at 4pm, ahead of the application deadline at 10am on Monday 11 January 2027.
Applicants can select up to three projects.
Further information is available through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Sound Futures website.
