Research group

Acoustics Group

Speakers

We explore the science and real-world application of acoustics. Our research includes underwater acoustics, aeroacoustics, and virtual acoustics.

Part of Engineering

About

We've worked with industry partners to discover the implications for areas like science, the ecosystem and quality of life.  

Ultrasonics and underwater acoustics (UAUA)  

  
At the UAUA we take projects from science to real-world use. Our work brings together a range of different specialisms and our areas of focus include:  

  • exploring how a waterfall might sound on Titan, Saturn's largest moon, and whether this could benefit the Cassini-Huygens probe mission  
  • studying how dolphins think, and how this knowledge could help us protect shipping  
  • producing 3D pictures of shipwrecks, allowing archaeological research without disturbing a wreck  

  
Biomedical and high-power ultrasonics  
   

We research a range of biomedical issues, such as how we can use ultrasound to change chemical reactions. This can help industries become cleaner and more efficient.  

Our research has led to developments in many areas, including:  

  • a 'smart stethoscope' to assess the effectiveness of ultrasound in destroying kidney stones  
  • an ultrasound system to detect osteoporosis and the general health of bone  
  • a method for assessing muscle quality using ultrasound  

  
Aeroacoustics and nonlinear acoustics 

 
Our programme of research in aeroacoustics includes exploring how to reduce aircraft noise. This noise affects the quality of life of those who live near airports, and is an environmental barrier to the growth of commercial aviation.  
 
We've focused on:  

  • the design of acoustic liners to reduce noise from intake and bypass ducts  
  • the development of improved models for jet noise  
  • developing and exploiting measurement techniques for rig and full-scale engine noise testing 

Research highlights

People, projects and publications

People

Mrs Emma Mackenzie

Principal Teaching Fellow

Research interests

  • Emma is interested in the fitting and verification of hearing aids.
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Dr Felix Langfeldt BEng, MSc, PhD, FHEA

Associate Professor

Research interests

  • Active/Passive Acoustic Metamaterials
  • Low-frequency Sound Insulation
  • Aircraft Cabin Noise Control

Accepting applications from PhD students

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Professor Filippo Fazi

Professor

Research interests

  • 3D audio capture and reproduction, including binaural audio, cross-talk cancellation, Ambisonics, studies of the Head Related Transfer Function (HRTF)
  • Loudspeaker and microphone arrays
  • Sound field control
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Dr Giacomo Squicciarini

Associate Professor

Research interests

  • Theoretical modelling of rolling noise: predictions of noise radiated by a train wheel rolling on a rail.
  • Curve squeal: measurements and models for understanding and mitigating curve squeal noise.
  • Piano acoustics: experiments and numerical modelling of sound generation in pianos.
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Professor Helen Cullington PhD

Professorial Fellow Enterprise

Research interests

  • cochlear implants
  • telemedicine
  • person-centred care

Accepting applications from PhD students

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Mr Ilias Zazas

Principal Enterprise Fellow

Research interests

  • Active Control of Noise and VibrationSignal Processing for Active ControlSmart Materials and FluidsHarmonic Control AlgorithmsAdaptive Filtering
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Dr Jack Lawrence

Senior Research Fellow
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Dr Jiahong Zhao PhD

Lecturer in Acoustics

Research interests

  • Microphone array signal processing,
  • spatial audio,
  • machine learning and computer vision.

Accepting applications from PhD students

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Mr Joe Tan PhD MSc BENG

Research Fellow

Research interests

  • Active Noise Control
  • Acoustic Metamaterials
  • Nonreciprocal Acoustics
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Professor Jordan Cheer BMus (Tonmeister), MSc, PhD, CEng, MIMechE, FHEA

Professor

Research interests

  • Active Noise Control
  • Active Vibration Control
  • Smart Structures for Noise and Vibration Control

Accepting applications from PhD students

Connect with Jordan
My main research area is the numerical studies of aircraft engine fan noise propagation and radiation and acoustic liner design, optimisation and predictions.
Senior Research Fellow