Fully Funded PhDs: From metamaterials to metasystems: A transformative application of acoustic and mechanical metamaterials

About the Project

Are you excited about the disruptive potential of metamaterials? Despite repeated demonstrations of their exceptional and unprecedented capabilities, practical applications of acoustic and mechanical metamaterials are almost nonexistent. We aim to bridge science and technology and overcome some key research gaps along the way to develop novel hybrid acousto-mechanical metamaterial systems with transformative yet well-rounded performance, essential for large-scale applications that impact human lives. For example, in a world of rising urban noise and denser living, imagine silencing disruptive footsteps from upstairs or muting intrusive city sounds using cutting-edge metamaterial systems.

If you're passionate about creativity in mechanics, linear and nonlinear dynamics, applying machine learning to the physical world and transforming theory into real-world solutions, join our transdisciplinary team at the Acoustics and Vibration Research Centre (AVRC) to pioneer metamaterial systems for transformational applications. This fully funded PhD includes full tuition fees, a tax-free stipend of NZ$35,000 per year, and support for research expenses like consumables and international conference travel. Additional paid opportunities include commercial testing with industry partners and teaching/tutoring roles to enhance your skills and CV.

The Research

A grand challenge: Most metamaterial research targets the achievement of a single extraordinary property, often neglecting other essential attributes, resulting in solutions that are unsuitable for real-world applications. A promising albeit under-explored approach is the combination of dissimilar metamaterial units to create aperiodic systems, but system-level integration, including the arrangements of different unit cells and the management of interfaces, remains a significant research gap. You’ll design synergistic metamaterial systems that blend dissimilar linear and nonlinear acoustic and elastic architected elements, as well as traditional materials.

An important application: Increasing housing density and urban noise pollution has led to a gradual degradation in acoustic comfort and occupant well-being, with significant consequences for public health and economic productivity. Conventional methods struggle against airborne sound and structure-borne vibrations through the building envelopes.

This project empowers visionary ideas, bridging theory and application for global relevance.

The Team and AVRC Facilities

These positions are funded by the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Mana Tūānuku Research Leader Fellowship led by Dr. Andrew Hall in collaboration with A/Prof. Vladislav Sorokin, Dr. George Dodd, and Dr. Emilio Calius.

You’ll have access to high-performance computing via New Zealand’s National eScience Infrastructure (NeSI) including GPUs and a rich software infrastructure. The AVRC also boasts world-leading experimental facilities, ranging from prototyping facilities that enable rapid iteration and advanced measurement systems to full-scale acoustic testing chambers for sound and vibration experiments that simulate real-world effects impossible to replicate at lab scale.These are complementedby industry networks that will help your research translate to real-world impacts

Ideal Applicant

We seek creative, innovative thinkers who bridge strong fundamentals with ingenuity in implementation. You should have:

• A strong BSc (first-class honors) or MSc in a relevant field ofEngineering, AppliedPhysics, Acoustics, Materials Science, or a related field.
• Proven experience in either analytical and computational modeling (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Pytorch, finite element methods and/or machine learning methods) or practical experimentation. Or ideally both.
• Essential traits: curiosity, creativity, self-discipline, critical thinking, time management, and a passion for applying theory to solve real-world problems.
• We value applicants who demonstrate originality in practical solutions and a solid grasp of concepts like vibration dynamics or metamaterial behaviors.
• Women and underrepresented groups in STEM are strongly encouraged to apply. International candidates are welcome, with visa support provided.

Why Choose This PhD at Auckland?

Join our exciting Acoustic Materials and Metamaterials Group, within the Acoustics and Vibration Research Centre. We strive to create a vibrant, creative and collaborative environment. Gain commercial exposure, teaching experience, and a competitive edge in a supportive environment in the heart of Auckland, famous for its amazing beaches, and green spaces.

To Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for positions starting in 2026—submit promptly. Email Dr. Andrew Hall at a.hall@auckland.ac.nz (cc: v.sorokin@auckland.ac.nz, g.dodd@auckland.ac.nz and emilio.calius@aut.ac.nz). Include:

• CV/resume.
• Academic transcript.
• A 500-word research interest statement proposing an innovative engineering solution to a building noise challenge using metamaterials.
• Reference key fundamentals (e.g., nonlinear wave interactions), explain your creative approach, and link to prior experience.

Keywords

Acoustics, Vibration, Metamaterials, Building Acoustics, Sound Insulation, Nonlinear Dynamics, Machine Learning, Physics Informed Neural Networks, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Sustainable Design, New Zealand, Fully Funded PhD, Innovation in Engineering.