Research

Music Technology PhD Opportunity

Project Title: Acoustic Source Detection for Situational Awareness

Project Description:
Surveillance and warning systems have mainly been developed into the community�s infrastructure safety network (eg: CCTV). In such applications, the safety of individuals is dependent on remote detection (say in a CCTV network), interpretation of danger (eg: human operator in control room) and deployment of a protective measure (a mobile police unit), by which time it could be too late. However, there are a number of situations where an individual�s perception of the surrounding environment is hindered, making him/her more vulnerable to accidents and/or intentional dangers. Examples include: a driver unaware of a fast moving emergency vehicle; a motorbike or cyclist wearing a protection helmet; a civil protection foraging robot or vehicle on patrol.

This project aims to study and develop detection and warning systems for users or equipment, allowing constant monitoring of the environment and identification of potential threats. The project straddles across a set of multi-disciplinary skills such as sensor engineering (with particular emphasis on acoustic detection), digital signal processing and cognitive behaviour. The development of advanced acoustic sensor networks and associated signal acquisition and analysis forms the core of the project. Collaboration with psychology and social sciences partners will be provided to support the areas of cognition and human behaviour.

This project is developed as a collaboration between the Music Technology and the Diagnostics Engineering Research Groups.

A successful candidate will have an academic background in engineering, science or maths and should have an interest on aspects of cognitive behaviour. Previous programming experience is desired.

Entry requirements: The standard entry requirement for PhD study is a First or Upper Second class honours degree, or the overseas equivalent, in a relevant subject. In certain circumstances, a Lower Second class honours degree supplemented by a Masters degree, or appropriate relevant work experience, may be acceptable.

Course fees: Tuition Fees

Related website:  Music Technology Research

Academic department: Department of Engineering and Technology: Music Technology

Contact: Dr Bruno Fazenda
Email: b.fazenda@hud.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1484 471893

How to apply: http://www2.hud.ac.uk/research/gradcentre/applications/