Large-scale active noise and vibration control system design

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Professor Jordan Cheer

The main aim of this research project is to develop novel methods that enable active noise and vibration control systems to be applied more efficiently and effectively to large-scale industrial installations. This research will overcome challenges related to the practical system integration through intelligent algorithm design.

A fully funded industrial studentship is available for a high-quality student to work in the area of large-scale active noise and vibration control system design. Although active noise and vibration control is now a relatively mature technology, with commercial systems in headphones, cars and aircrafts, it is not straightforward to apply to large-scale applications with widely distributed control sources and error sensors.

The successful applicant to this position will investigate the limits on active noise and vibration control systems adopting decentralised and distributed control architectures. These strategies reduce the number of connections and potentially the amount of data that must be communicated between different elements of the controller and are thus well suited to large-scale applications.

The project will be carried out using a range of numerical and experimental techniques and provide the successful candidate with significant opportunities to develop a variety of research and engineering skills relevant to careers in both academia and industry. This will include control algorithm development, DSP design and implementation, and modelling and experimental implementation of large-scale noise and vibration systems.

The specific focus of the research is likely to depend on your skills, but you'll certainly benefit from the extensive experimental facilities available at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR).

In addition to the standard training provided as part of a PhD, you will receive training in numerical modelling techniques (Comsol), digital signal processing (using a range of platforms including Labview, dSpace), and will gain experience in large-scale realisation and testing of noise and vibration control systems relevant to industrial application.

Entry requirements

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

This PhD studentship is open only to UK applicants.

This project is suitable for you if you have a general interest in:

• structures
• acoustics
• noise and vibration
• control, digital signal processing
• smart intelligent structures including machine learning and AI

Fees and funding

This project benefits from the support of a large industrial partner and this covers the full cost of UK tuition fees and a significantly enhanced tax free stipend of up to £32,805, which includes the standard UKRI studentship of £21,805 for 26/27 and a £11,000 industrial top-up. You will also have access to significant funding to support research activities and training, including attendance at international conferences.

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)