PhD Stipends in Machine Learning for Intelligent Hearing Assistance in Complex Acoustic Environments Aalborg University in Denmark

The Department of Electronic Systems at Aalborg University, Denmark, is offering PhD stipends and integrated PhD stipends in the field of Machine Learning for Intelligent Hearing Assistance in Complex Acoustic Environments. These positions are part of the general study programme in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and are open for appointments from August 1, 2026 (PhD stipend) and September 1, 2026 (integrated PhD stipend).

Aalborg University is internationally recognized for its high academic quality and societal impact, particularly in electronic engineering. The Department of Electronic Systems employs over 200 staff, including about 90 PhD students, and is known for its diverse and international environment. The department conducts world-leading research in communication, networks, control systems, AI, sound, cyber security, and robotics, leveraging unique research infrastructure and lab facilities. It actively collaborates with industrial partners to transfer research results into real-world applications.

The Centre for Acoustic Signal Processing Research, within the Section on Artificial Intelligence and Sound, focuses on advancing next-generation hearing assistive technologies using machine learning and statistical signal processing. The research aims to enable robust, real-time speech understanding in complex acoustic environments, moving beyond traditional audibility-based solutions. The goal is to develop systems that enhance intelligibility, meaning extraction, and user-specific listening intent, ultimately matching or exceeding normal-hearing performance in real-world scenarios.

The PhD project scope includes novel low-complexity neural network architectures, generative audio techniques, and integration of large language and speech foundation models. Key objectives are improving speech perception in noisy environments, reducing listening effort, and developing adaptive, efficient algorithms for hearing assistive devices. Applications range from advanced hearing aid systems for individuals with hearing impairments to broader solutions for enhancing speech communication in challenging acoustic situations, such as headsets, earbuds, and telepresence systems.

Successful candidates will join the Section on AI & Sound, led by Professor Jan Østergaard, and be supported by a dedicated supervisory team from the Centre for Acoustic Signal Processing Research. The section offers a world-class research environment, excellent working and networking opportunities, and full employment benefits.

Applicants must hold an M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering, mathematical engineering, acoustics, machine learning, or a related field for the standard PhD stipend. For the integrated PhD stipend, candidates must be enrolled in a relevant Master’s programme. Required competencies include strong mathematical and analytical skills (signal processing, optimization, machine learning, information theory) and programming experience (C++, Python, Matlab). Proficiency in English is expected. Application materials include a motivation statement, CV, diplomas or transcripts, and a one-page project description outlining research vision.

The integrated PhD stipend consists of two SU-PhD Grants per month (DKK 7,426 each, 2026 level) for up to two years, followed by two years as a PhD fellow with salary per collective agreement. The standard PhD stipend offers full employment benefits and salary per collective agreement. Both options provide full funding for tuition and stipend.

As part of the PhD study, students must complete PhD courses (30 ECTS), gain teaching or knowledge dissemination experience, and undertake an external research stay (preferably 3-6 months) at a foreign institution. The application process is managed via Aalborg University’s recruitment system. All applicants will be informed about shortlisting after the deadline. The university values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds.

For further information, visit the department website or contact the supervisors listed in the job post. The main campus is in Aalborg, with additional campuses in Esbjerg and Copenhagen.