PhD Position in Music Computing: Computational Modelling of Musical Style

Utrecht University invites applications for a PhD position in Music Computing within the Faculty of Science, Department of Information and Computing Sciences. This opportunity is based in the Music Information Computing Group, renowned for its interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computer science, mathematics, and music. The project focuses on computational modelling of musical style, a central challenge in Music Information Retrieval (MIR), with applications in user modelling, cultural heritage, music categorization, transcription, recommendation, and historical analysis. The research aims to develop explainable computational models that advance our understanding of musical style, its elements, structure, perception, and variation across cultures and history. The project builds on theories such as Leonard B. Meyer’s concept of musical style as pattern replication and Leonard Ratner’s topic theory, exploring how musical patterns are identified, replicated, and perceived. The work will also connect with music cognition, particularly the role of musical memory and personalized music perception, which is crucial for interactive music systems. As a PhD candidate, you will prepare diverse datasets representing a wide range of musical styles (audio and symbolic formats), design data structures for music representation, develop computational detectors for musical patterns, and implement and evaluate models of musical style. Case studies will apply these models to various musical traditions, including game and film music. You will communicate your findings through academic presentations, publications, and your PhD thesis, while expanding your academic network. Teaching tasks within the department will provide valuable experience. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in computing science, information science, or a closely related field, with strong programming skills and broad interest in music, including historical and non-Western traditions. Knowledge of music theory, notation, history, and audio processing is essential, along with curiosity, independence, eagerness to learn, and excellent English communication skills. The position is initially for 18 months, extendable to four years upon successful assessment. The gross monthly salary starts at €3,059 and increases to €3,881 in the fourth year (full-time), with additional benefits including 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, flexible employment terms, and professional development support. Utrecht University offers a collegial and inclusive environment, with a strong commitment to diversity and knowledge security. To apply, submit your motivation letter, CV, academic transcripts for BSc and MSc, contact details of at least two references, and a copy of your MSc thesis via the university's application portal. For further information, contact Dr. Peter van Kranenburg at [email protected]. The application deadline is 31 March 2026. Join a vibrant research community at Utrecht University, where you will contribute to cutting-edge research in music computing and shape the future of music information technologies.