Research aim and objectives
The project will develop a listener-aware framework for predicting dialogue understanding across different audiences, devices and listening environments. It aims to produce a quantitative Dialogue Understandability Rating that reflects real-world viewing experiences more accurately than existing audio quality metrics.
Key objectives include:
- Defining and measuring Dialogue Understandability for quantitative rating
- Modelling listener types, including hearing profiles, language proficiency and accent familiarity
- Exploring how AI, speech models and large language models can support prediction of comprehension and listening effort
- Developing validated models and evaluation protocols for media content.
Approach and outcomes
The research will combine speech and audio analysis with AI techniques, using existing datasets and newly collected listener data. It will examine how listening context, device, room acoustics and cognitive effort affect understanding. Expected outcomes include a validated computational model, new datasets and experimental protocols, and practical insights for streaming, broadcast, accessibility and media production.
Candidate profile
Applicants should have a background in machine learning, audio engineering, speech processing or a related discipline, with an interest in human-centred media technologies.
Funding eligibility: This studentship is only available to students with Home fee status in the UK.
Enquiries: Informal enquiries may be made to Dr. Ben Shirley by email: b.g.shirley@salford.ac.uk
Curriculum vitae and supporting statement explaining their interest should be sent to: m.watts@salford.ac.uk
Note to applicant: In addition to applying for this role the successful candidate will also be required to complete the University application process which applies to all students wishing to study at The University of Salford. How to apply for research studies can be found here: www.salford.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/applying/applying-for-research
Please note that the deadline for student admissions is Monday 16th November 2026 for a January 2027 intake.
£22,852 per annum for three and a half years
