Summary
The University of Southampton invites applications for a pioneering PhD studentship focusing on novel noise control technologies. This project will explore advanced acoustic metamaterials to tackle broadband noise pollution, a significant challenge impacting health and productivity. You will develop innovative designs that synergistically combine metamaterial approaches with poroelastic materials to achieve superior noise insulation performance across a wide frequency range.
PhD Studentship: Broadband Noise Control Using Synergetic Poroelastic Acoustic Metamaterials
Designation
PhD Student (Doctor of Philosophy)
Research Area
- Acoustic Metamaterials
- Poroelastic Materials
- Noise Control Engineering
- Sound Insulation
- Vibro-acoustics
Location
University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
Eligibility/Qualification
Entry Requirements
- A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in one of the following fields:
- Acoustics
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physics
- Similar relevant disciplines
- Basic knowledge in acoustic metamaterials and noise control is desirable.
Additional Information
- The School of Engineering is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity.
- Applications are welcomed regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or age.
- Consideration will be given to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break.
Job Description
As a PhD researcher, you will:
- Conduct analytical modelling and numerical simulations to study the physics of poroelastic materials and their potential for metamaterial-like behaviour and high-frequency sound absorption.
- Propose novel poroelastic acoustic metamaterial designs.
- Validate the performance of these designs using measurements in the world-class acoustic testing facilities at the Institute of Sound and Vibration Research.
- Optimise sound insulation properties for broadband performance.
- Benefit from transferable skills training offered to PhD students at the University of Southampton.
- Have the opportunity to attend relevant world-class modules on sound and vibration from undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
- Be supported to attend international conferences and workshops to develop communication skills and technical expertise.
Potential Supervisors
- Lead Supervisor: Dr Felix Langfeldt (Associate Professor)
- Research interests: Active/Passive Acoustic Metamaterials, Low-frequency Sound Insulation, Aircraft Cabin Noise Control
- Supervisor: Dr Sjoerd Van Ophem (Lecturer in Structural Dynamics)
- Research interests: Vibro-acoustic analysis, Model order reduction, Digital twins
How to Apply
To apply, please follow these steps:
- Visit the application portal.
- Choose programme type: Research.
- Select the academic year: 2027/28.
- Select the Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences.
- Choose between Full-time or Part-time study.
- Search for the programme: PhD Engineering & the Environment (7175).
- Add the name of the supervisor (Dr Felix Langfeldt) in section 2 of the application.
Required Application Documents
- Your CV (resumé)
- 2 academic references
- Degree transcripts and certificates to date
- English language qualification (if applicable)
Funding Opportunities
A range of funding opportunities are available for both UK and international students, including:
- Horizon Europe fee waivers (automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students).
- Competition-based Presidential Bursaries (cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants).
- Competition-based studentships (typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants).
Funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged for the best opportunity to be considered. For more information, please visit the postgraduate research funding pages.
Contact Information
- For questions about applying, email the Doctoral College: doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk
- For an initial conversation about the project, email Dr Felix Langfeldt: F.Langfeldt@soton.ac.uk
Last Date for Apply
31 January 2027
Apply Link
