PhD in Sports Acoustics: Impact Sound in Cricket, Golf, Baseball and Tennis University of Southampton in United Kingdom

PhD opportunity at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research, University of Southampton, on sports acoustics and impact sound in cricket, with methods extended to baseball, golf, and tennis.

The project investigates how ball–equipment impact sounds reveal performance quality, contact mechanics, and ball trajectory. It combines acoustic analysis, physics-based modelling, and machine learning to extract high-fidelity performance information from sound signals and to develop robust indicators that may support elite analysis and low-cost coaching tools.

A major feature is collaboration with Hawk-Eye Innovations, including industrial placements and access to world-leading tracking datasets and systems. The project sits at the interface of sports engineering, data science, acoustics, vibration, and dynamics.

Eligibility: a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in engineering, physics, mathematics, computer science, or a related scientific discipline. Applicants should demonstrate initiative, curiosity, problem-solving ability, and teamwork. English language qualification is required if applicable.

Funding: competition funded, with partial sponsorship from Hawk-Eye Innovations. Funding options mentioned include fee waivers and competition-based studentships that may cover tuition and stipend for top-ranked applicants.

Deadline: 31 Dec 2026. Apply early because funding is awarded on a rolling basis.