FAQs

The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Sustainable Sound Futures is a UK based doctoral training programme focused on acoustics and sound research. It aims to develop researchers who can transform how sound is understood, managed, and engineered across industry, society, and the environment. 

The CDT is led by the University of Salford and delivered in partnership with the University of Bristol, University of Sheffield, and University of Southampton. 

The programme is funded to train more than 70 PhD students across the four partner universities.  

The CDT is funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), with additional support and collaboration from industry and government partners.  

The CDT supports research across a broad range of acoustics-related disciplines, including: 

• Environmental acoustics 
• Vibro-acoustics 
• Aeroacoustics 
• Acoustic metamaterials 
• Machine learning applications in acoustics 
• Noise control 
• Sound perception and psychoacoustics 
• Sustainable sound engineering solutions 

Yes. Projects are developed with industry and project partners and focus on creating practical solutions that address challenges in sectors such as transport, energy, manufacturing, construction, health, culture, and the environment.   

Yes. Many PhD projects involve collaboration with industrial partners, giving students opportunities to work on applied research with real-world impact.  

Recent projects have included: 

• Wind turbine noise control 
• Machine learning for acoustic prediction 
• Tinnitus therapy technologies 
• Vibro-acoustic modelling of engineering systems 
• Acoustic metamaterials and additive manufacturing  

The CDT seeks applicants who: 

• Have the potential to undertake excellent research 
• Want to contribute new knowledge to acoustics
• Have a broad interest in sound
• Enjoy collaboration within a diverse research community 

Applicants apply for advertised research projects and submit a project application form using an anonymous applicant identifier. Applications are reviewed by academic staff and relevant project or industry partners.  

Yes. The CDT actively supports participation from underrepresented groups in acoustics research and may offer additional support to eligible UK home-fee applicants. Priority groups may include: 

• Women in acoustics 
• First-generation university students 
• Mature students 
• Care-experienced or estranged students 
• Applicants with disabilities 
• Applicants from underrepresented socio-economic backgrounds  

Subject to availability, eligible widening-participation applicants may be offered an academic mentor to support their application.  

Further information about applications, required qualifications and finance can be found at https://soundfutures.salford.ac.uk/applicant-faq/   

The CDT combines specialist acoustics expertise with transferable professional skills. Training covers: 

• Acoustics and vibration fundamentals 
• Signal processing 
• Digital signal processing 
• Mathematics and statistics 
• Computing 
• Psychophysics 
• Human perception of sound 
• Effects of noise on people  

Training uses a mixture of face-to-face events (topic days, summer school and winter residential) and online training activities (masterclasses, seminars and journal clubs).

Students join a cohort of fellow researchers across all four universities. The programme encourages collaboration, networking, peer learning, and a strong cohort identity throughout the PhD journey.

New students attend a residential workshop where they explore Sustainable Sound Futures from multiple disciplinary perspectives. They work on interdisciplinary problem-based projects alongside students from across the CDT.  

The annual Summer School is a key part of the CDT, bringing together students, supervisors and partners for five days of training, hands-on learning and collaboration. It also includes an annual conference where students present and discuss their research with the wider acoustics community.

Yes. Students receive training in: 

• Public engagement 
• Policy 
• Sustainability 
• Entrepreneurship 
• Responsible innovation 
• Research communication and leadership skills 

Industry collaboration helps ensure research addresses genuine societal and industry challenges while preparing students for careers inside and outside academia.  

Partners can: 

• Host site visits 
• Offer placements 
• Deliver guest lectures and masterclasses 
• Provide case studies and datasets 
• Give access to specialist facilities 
• Sponsor research projects

Partners can: 

• Influence the development of future talent 
• Access leading-edge research 
• Develop collaborative research relationships 
• Explore innovation opportunities 
• Gain fresh perspectives from doctoral researchers  

The CDT works with a large network of partners, including UK and international organisations (JLR, Safran SLS, Farrat, Airbus, Hadley Group, SIEMENS, Head Acoustics), UK Public organisations (DEFRA, NHS, DSTL) and Third sector (RNID, RNIB) as well as many universities and specialist consultancies. 

Students have access to specialist laboratories, research facilities, equipment, and expertise across all four partner universities, providing a unique research environment in acoustics and sound.  

Yes. Industry and partner placements form part of the CDT experience and help students develop practical experience and professional networks.  

Graduates are equipped for careers in: 

• Academia 
• Industry based research and development 
• Engineering consultancy 
• Government agencies 
• Technology and innovation sectors 
• Environmental and sustainability roles  

Prospective applicants can follow the CDT on LinkedIn and regularly check the website for upcoming opportunities and funded project announcements.  

Follow us on LinkedIn and check out our News page for the latest updates. 

Yes. The CDT website includes a dedicated podcast section as part of its wider engagement and knowledge-sharing activities.  Our students are also involved in outreach activities at a local level.