Above and Beyond the Human Voice: Interactive Design Optimisation Algorithms for Vocal Co-Creation in Staged-Performance and Composition Environments (CreativeAI Studentship)

This practice-based PhD at The University of Manchester offers a unique opportunity to explore the boundaries of vocal practice, extending into non-human and augmented vocal territories through Interactive Design Optimisation (IDO) algorithms. The project leverages well-established human-computer collaboration techniques, where human designers actively guide optimisation processes to refine solutions to complex problems, blending creativity with computational power. Building on successful doctoral research collaborations across Music, Alliance Manchester Business School, and Computer Science since 2018, this research aims to enhance music and vocal co-creation within staged-performance environments. Methodologically, the project combines AI-guided music generation, interactive multi-criteria decision-making, and Bayesian optimisation to develop an AI system capable of mapping human feedback to vocal musical features. Key research questions include capturing human feedback in music generation, modelling the mapping between feedback and musical features, designing interactions that minimise cognitive fatigue and biases, and extending system design beyond the human voice to include whale song, birdsong, and other non-human vocalisations within interactive media practices. Outcomes of the research include the development of an IDO framework for vocal co-creation, extending Bayesian optimisation and multi-criteria decision-making for musical applications. The creative outcome will be a PhD portfolio of musical compositions and staged performances (minimum 90 minutes), comprising 5-6 vocal/interactive works exploring human and non-human vocal territories, plus a large-scale audiovisual installation demonstrating novel vocal-AI interactions. Dissemination will occur across computer music venues (ICMC, NIME, AIMC, EvoMUSART) and popular scientific/industry forums, with publication in peer-reviewed journals contributing to novel approaches in human-in-the-loop optimisation for creative applications. There is also a strong possibility of collaborating with an external cultural organisation based in Manchester during the PhD. Applicants must hold a Bachelor's (Honours) degree at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent) and a Master's degree in a relevant subject with an overall average of 65% or above, a minimum mark of 65% in the dissertation, and no mark below 55%. Experience in music composition (computer, instrumental, vocal, or electronic), computer science, machine learning, optimisation, human-computer interaction, interactive systems design, creative coding environments (e.g., Max/MSP, SuperCollider, Python), experimental music, AI-assisted creativity, or staged vocal performance is required. A portfolio of relevant musical works is required. English language proficiency must be demonstrated: IELTS minimum 7.0 overall and 7.0 in writing, TOEFL minimum 100 overall and 25 in all sections, or PTE minimum 76 overall and 76 in writing. Applicants may be admitted with IELTS 6.5 overall and 6.5 in writing for PhD Music (Composition) / (Electro-Acoustic Composition). The CreativeAI studentship covers tuition fees, research support, and stipend (£20,780 for 2025/2026), commencing September 2026. The application deadline is midnight (GMT) on 30 March 2026. Apply online for PhD Music (Electroacoustic Composition) at The University of Manchester. In Section 6, select 'Yes' for applying to an advertised project and insert the project title as stated. Indicate your intention to apply for the CreativeAI studentship in Section 9. Ensure all required supporting documents are included; incomplete applications may not be considered. Your application must include academic transcripts and certificates, an academic CV, a supporting statement, a writing sample, a musical composition or interactive media work, and two academic referees. Formal interviews are expected to take place week commencing 11th May 2026. For further information or to discuss the position, contact Prof. Ricardo Climent at [email protected]. The University of Manchester is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, actively encouraging applicants from diverse backgrounds and career paths.