Fully Funded PhD Opportunities in Acoustics, Sound Engineering, and Related Fields (EPSRC CDT Sustainable Sound Futures, 2026) University of Sheffield in United Kingdom

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Sound Futures is now accepting applications for fully funded PhD projects starting in autumn 2026. This prestigious doctoral training centre is a collaboration between the University of Salford, University of Sheffield, University of Bristol, and University of Southampton, with support from over 50 industry and government partners. The CDT offers a unique interdisciplinary environment for research in acoustics, sound engineering, noise control, vibration, metamaterials, automotive engineering, electric vehicles, machine learning, speech science, and assistive technology.

PhD projects span a wide range of topics, including improving noise and vibration in cars (in partnership with Jaguar Land Rover), minimising noise transmission via high voltage cable systems, enhancing the accuracy of transfer path analysis for prototyping vehicles (with Siemens Industry Software NV), investigating communication and listening effort for blind and partially sighted people (with RNIB), and personalised auditory and listener preference modelling for headphone audio optimisation (with Sonos). Students will have access to bespoke training, specialist laboratories, and a vibrant research community across four leading UK universities.

Applicants should have or expect to obtain a first-class honours degree or a master's with distinction in a relevant science or engineering discipline. Experience in acoustic or vibration measurement, prediction, and analysis is desirable, as are skills in programming, machine learning, assistive technology, or speech science. Some projects are restricted to UK or EU nationals. The programme is fully funded for UK and international students, with a stipend and tuition fees covered. The deadline for applications is 11 January 2026.

For more information and a full list of projects, visit the programme website. Interested candidates are encouraged to contact the named supervisors for project-specific queries. This is an excellent opportunity to join a world-leading centre and contribute to the future of sustainable sound and acoustics research.