Improving understanding of the inner ear using otoacoustic emissions

About the Project

Supervisory team: Dr. Ben Lineton

This project aims to test our theories of cochlea processes by measuring sounds generated within the cochlea and comparing the results with theoretical predictions. The cochlea generates low-level sounds (otoacoustic emissions) in response to sound stimulation. Novel stimuli will be used to assess the generation mechanisms.

The human cochlea generates low-level sounds (otoacoustic emissions) that can be detected in the ear canal using a sensitive microphone. When sound is presented to the ear, otoacoustic emissions are generated within the cochlea by the outer hair cells which act as biological electro-mechanical amplifiers. Though we know that the outer hair cells play a key role in hearing, how they work remains poorly understood.

The aim of the project is to investigate the non-linear relationships between the sound stimulus and the measured emissions, and to compare these with theoretical predictions from existing or novel models.

Otoacoustic emissions will be measured in human participants using various different novel stimuli (such as maximum length sequences) which enable different aspects of non-linear cochlear mechanics to be assayed. Theoretical predictions of the otoacoustic emissions will be made using different mathematical models implemented in Matlab. The models may be revised to improve their correspondence with measurements.

Entry requirements:

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent.

Ideally you will have:

• knowledge of signal processing of acoustic signals
• excellent programming skills (e.g. Python/MATLAB)

Fees and funding:

Full scholarships include tuition fees, a tax-free stipend at the UKRI rate for up to 3.5 years (totalling £20,780 for 2025/26, rising annually). UK, EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. Chinese Scholarship Council funded students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How to apply:

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)