PhD Position in Bio-inspired Sensing for Understanding the Soundscape of Anthropocene Seas

The Centre for Biorobotics at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on bio-inspired sensing and the acoustic monitoring of marine environments. This interdisciplinary project aims to advance the understanding of the 'Soundscape of the Anthropocene,' where human activity increasingly masks natural marine communication. The research will move beyond traditional single-point measurements, leveraging a combination of classical hydrophones, Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), and novel bio-inspired sensors such as Hydromast and DPSS to develop biologically relevant disturbance maps and assess the impact of anthropogenic noise on marine ecosystems. As a PhD candidate, you will address key research questions including modeling the spatiotemporal variability of marine soundscapes, quantifying the overlap between anthropogenic noise and the frequency bands used by Baltic soniferous species, and developing robust signal processing algorithms to separate biological signals from complex background noise. Responsibilities include designing and implementing advanced signal processing pipelines (beamforming, source localization, denoising), integrating heterogeneous data sources (scalar pressure, strain, and flow/vector data), participating in sea trials to deploy autonomous platforms, and validating sensor performance. You will also disseminate your findings through publications in high-impact journals and presentations at international conferences. The Centre for Biorobotics is a highly international research-focused lab, bridging fundamental research and real-world impact through interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on fieldwork in diverse environments, including ports, coastal sites, and Arctic deployments. The lab is involved in over 15 EU research projects, offering a dynamic environment and opportunities for research stays and networking with globally leading universities. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Signal Processing, or related fields. Essential skills include strong signal processing foundations, proficiency in Python or MATLAB, understanding of wave physics, and excellent English communication. Beneficial skills include experience with MEMS or FPGA, machine learning, data science, big data analysis, and an interest in marine robotics, oceanography, or marine biology. The position offers a 4+ year contract with full funding, direct involvement in major EU projects, and a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment. To apply, submit your application by email to Dr. Elizaveta Dubrovinskaya at [email protected] or use the provided application form. Include a comprehensive CV, motivation letter, copy of your ID, and degree certificates as required by the university. Links to supplementary materials such as GitHub, thesis, or published works are highly encouraged. For more information about the Centre for Biorobotics, visit taltech.ee/en/biorobotics . Application deadline: 12 April 2026. Location: Tallinn, Estonia. Institution: Tallinn University of Technology.