Acoustics

The Acoustics Research Group has been in existence for over forty years, carrying out internationally leading research in the fields of environmental acoustics, musical acoustics and the development of non-invasive acoustical measurement techniques.

The members of academic staff in the group hold positions in, and have strong links with, the Institute of Acoustics, the European Acoustics Association and the Acoustical Society of America. At any given time, the group hosts around five research students and postdoctoral researchers, ensuring an active and focused research community with full academic and technical support.

Key facts

  • Established worldwide collaborations with other acoustics research institutions.
  • Strong links with musical instrument manufacturers and professional musicians.
  • All research students have the opportunity to present work at major international conferences.
  • Excellent opportunities for involvement in acoustics outreach activities.
  • Members of the group appear regularly in both the local and national media.

Location

Most of our full-time research students are based at our Milton Keynes campus; for details of residence requirements for different modes of study see Full-time study and Part-time study.

Facilities

Acoustic Research Group facilities include two anechoic chambers, a laser laboratory, a high-speed camera, a scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer, professional quality microphones, as well as a wide range of measuring apparatus and high-performance computing equipment.

Career prospects

Many of our PhD students have gone on to build successful academic careers. Others have used the skills and knowledge gained during their PhD to secure acoustics-related jobs in industry.

Links

 
 

Find your research topic

Explore specific areas of research, current and prospective projects, entry requirements, fees and funding, available supervisors, how to apply and contact details for advice.

Environmental acoustics

Musical acoustics

Non-invasive monitoring

 
 

Related topics

Consider linked topics from other research areas.

Music computing

 
 

Life as an OU research student is rewarding in so many ways. I studied for a PhD in Acoustics in the School of Engineering & Innovation where I had regular access to sophisticated laboratory equipment – including an anechoic chamber, highly knowledgeable and supporting supervisors, and a team of other research students working in a wide array of interesting disciplines to share ideas. I am now working as an acoustic consultant where I make use of the wide array of skills I gained as an OU student every day.

Dr Alex StronachPhD Graduate, School of Engineering & Innovation