Tim Smith

This practice-based PhD project at the University of the Arts London explores how emerging digital technologies are transforming the relationships between body, space, and place within contemporary immersive and performative art practices. The research aims to move beyond traditional models that treat 'place' as a passive backdrop, instead developing performative systems that act as intelligent agents actively sculpting the dynamics of digital environments. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to shape the project according to their own disciplinary, methodological, or creative interests. Research may involve interpreting physiological, neural, and affective data from performers and audiences in real-time, aligning digital spaces with the embodied states of participants, and foregrounding place as enacted through the intra-action of bodies, technologies, and environments. Potential research questions include: How can real-time neuro-physiological signals be incorporated into performance to enrich audience and performer experiences? Can embodied digital performances shape the 'space' between performer and audience? How can the liveness of the audience–performer relationship be understood within a technology-assisted performative space? What are the creative opportunities and technical challenges of combining neuroscientific data with real-time performance? Projects attentive to ethical, embodied, and public dimensions of immersive technology are encouraged. Practice-based experimentation may include interactive installations, performative prototypes responsive to bodily movement, spatial proximity, and neuro-physiological signals, as well as AI-driven systems, biofeedback, generative sound, and responsive visuals. Technical trajectories may involve high-fidelity sensing such as motion-capture, wearable neuroimaging (via the CCI Nerve Lab), and physiological sensors to map subtle somatic signals. Artinis Medical Systems is a project partner, providing expertise in wireless neuroimaging for moving bodies. Professor Tim Smith, Director of the Nerve Lab (CCI), offers internationally recognised expertise in perception, attention, and physiological measurement within complex visual and spatial environments. Dr Friendred Peng, an award-winning artist and Senior Lecturer for MA 3D Computer Animation at LCC, UAL, brings extensive experience in artistic practice and research. The collaboration ensures access to advanced methods for analysing bodily and cognitive responses, integrating artistic practice with empirical investigation. Applicants should have prior methodological and practical experience in computer science, digital arts, performance, and/or human-centred design. Experience with high-fidelity sensing, wearable neuroimaging, and physiological sensors is advantageous. No specific degree level, GPA, or language test requirements are mentioned. Funding details are not specified for this position. The application deadline is May 11, 2026. Interested candidates should review the application guidance and submit their application via the University of the Arts London website, ensuring their application addresses their disciplinary and creative interests relevant to the project.