This PhD studentship at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the cutting-edge field of generative audio signal analysis. The project aims to develop a novel reverse engineering framework for detecting and analyzing generative audio signals, leveraging advanced signal processing and machine learning techniques. The research will focus on identifying the underlying generative models, source audio content, and training datasets used to create synthetic audio, with the goal of distinguishing authentic from AI-generated audio content.

Key objectives include developing robust feature extraction methods, improving algorithmic robustness, and establishing attribution mechanisms for provenance. The outcomes of this research will have significant implications for digital forensics, copyright protection, and media authentication, providing essential tools to combat audio deepfakes and the challenges posed by generative AI in media.

The project is supervised by Dr. Shengchen Li (XJTLU), Professor Qiufeng Wang (XJTLU), Dr. Jacopo de Berardinis (University of Liverpool), and Professor Mark D. Plumbley (King’s College London). The successful candidate will conduct the majority of their research at XJTLU in Suzhou, China, with the possibility of a short-term research visit to the University of Liverpool if required by the project. Upon successful completion, the student will be awarded a PhD degree from the University of Liverpool (UK).

Funding for this studentship includes full tuition fees for three years (currently RMB 99,000 per annum) and up to RMB 16,500 to support participation in international conferences. The scholarship is subject to satisfactory progress and is open to candidates of all nationalities.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree with Merit and a Bachelor’s degree with first-class or upper second-class honors. Exceptional candidates with only a Bachelor’s degree may be considered on an individual basis. Strong spoken and written English skills are required, with an IELTS score of 6.5 or above (or equivalent) if English is not the first language.

To apply, interested candidates should complete the application form at https://shengchenli.github.io/application.html and submit all required documents, including CV, two reference letters, personal statement, English language certificates, academic transcripts, verified education certificates, and a PDF of the Master’s dissertation or equivalent writing sample. Please include the project title in the subject line. For further information, email enquiries to [email protected].

For more details about the doctoral scholarship and PhD programme at XJTLU, visit entry requirements and fees and scholarship pages. The principal supervisor’s academic profile is available at Shengchen Li’s profile.