TU RISE PhD Scholarship

 

Project Title: Sounding Science: Investigating Novel Sonification Approaches for Communicating Scientific Data to Wider Audiences

MTU Cork School of Music:
Department of Musicianship & Academic Studies

Further information or queries please e-mail researchcsm@mtu.ie

Closing date for applications: 4^th November 2024

Interviews (on-line) anticipated to be held early/mid November 2024

PhD commencement date latest by 1^st January 2024.

About the Project

We invite applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD project as a full-time programme of study. This PhD “Sounding Science: Investigating Novel Sonification Approaches for Communicating Scientific Data to Wider Audiences” is funded by MTU supported by TU RISE funding.

Through case studies in collaboration with departments across MTU campuses, Sounding Science proposes to apply the principles of data sonification to diverse disciplines to uncover new ways of communicating scientific information to the public. This AHSS-led project aligns with the TU RISE and Horizon Europe theme of Digital, Industry and Space by invoking novel data analysis concepts to research groups and industrial applications including quantum networks, bioinformatics and astronomy. In its applied use of theory from the sonic arts it is also addresses the theme of Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society.

Our research question inquires if data sonification is suitable and effective in communicating scientific data to experts as well as public audiences. This central tenet will be provoked and inquired through the following key R&I objectives:

1. To work with diverse and multidisciplinary scientific disciplines to build several case studies for the sonification of scientific data. These case studies will include, but are not limited to:
   1. Quantum network data provided by the Cyber Skills Team
   2. Astronomical data such as active galactic nuclei emissions, working with Blackrock Castle Observatory
   3. Bioinformatic and protein model data from CAPPA
   4. Real-world data from the Smart Districts project
2. Determine appropriate evaluation approaches for verification and validation of methodologies in communicating with public audiences. Survey the effectiveness of the approaches comparing with traditional data visualisation methods and other experimental approaches such as physicalisation.
3. Disseminate and exhibit experiments, proof of concepts and outputs to the public through (Education and Public Engagement) EPE events, exhibitions (e.g. Lifelong learning, Science Week, Innovation Month) and possible collaborations with researchers and artists. Publish and discuss research findings at specialised international conferences and journals.

Requirements: 

Essential:

• Applicants must have achieved at least a second-class higher level (2H1) classification or equivalent in an appropriate discipline area relevant to the research field (e.g. Sound & Music, Computer Science, Engineering, Multimedia, Digital Art) from a recognised degree awarding body OR possess a Master’s Degree in an appropriate discipline area relevant to the research field from a recognised degree awarding body. 
• Ability to self-direct but also collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent written and communication skills
• At least one general purpose programming language (e.g. Python, C++)
• At least audio-based programming language/framework (e.g. Max, Pd, Supercollider, JUCE)

Desirable:

• Prior research experience
• Applied statistics (e.g. machine learning, data science, deep learning)
• Music Information Retrieval and/or Digital Signal Processing
• Experience collaborating and delivering sound-based exhibitions, installations, performances with an EPE focus

They should have an interest in and an aptitude for (e.g. laboratory–based research or insert topic specific relevant to the PhD project).

For applicants whose first language is not English, the English language requirements accepted by MTU for entry into postgraduate studies are:

• IELTS Academic 6.0 (No less than a 5.5 in any one band)
• PTE Academic 51 (Minimum 45 in each component)
• TOEFL IBT 80 min (score of 18 in each component)

Please refer to: https://www.mtu.ie/international/eu-applicants/

General terms and conditions of this PhD scholarship award

 

Start date & location: This PhD starts no later than 1^st Jan 2025. The student will be based primarily at MTU Cork School of Music. The student will be registered at MTU, working under the supervision of Dr Cárthach Ó Nuanáin (MTU Cork School of Music), Dr Hazel Murray (Cyber Skills) and Dr Niall Smith (MTU Research Office / MTU Blackrock Castle Observatory) with the support of Dr Venkata Vamsi B Yallapragada (CAPPA). The PhD Scholar is required to spend at least 12 weeks on placement with an enterprise partner within the four-year term of their doctoral programme. The project supervisor/PI (in conjunction with the PhD scholar) is responsible for arranging the student placement with a suitable enterprise partner.

Please note: Students of MTU Cork School of Music are subject to MTU Student Regulations and require mandatory Garda vetting.

Funding: The scholarship funding is tax free and includes payment of University PhD fees (EU or non-EU) and a student stipend at a flat rate of €25,000 per annum which is tenable for 4 years.

To Apply: 

Please send a single PDF file consisting of the following to (researchcsm@mtu.ie) with ‘TU RISE PhD Application’ in the subject heading:

1. Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV), including:
   • Education History
   • Relevant skills
   • Research projects/publications
   • Artworks, Performances, Exhibitions

 

2. A cover letter (2-pages max) including a description of the applicant’s research interests, reasons for applying for the position. The Cover letter must clearly indicate how the applicant’s profile and skills fit the requirements of this PhD position.
3. Scanned copies of relevant academic transcripts and English language certificates.
4. A minimum of two recommendation letters and/or contact information for referees.

 

Further information or queries please e-mail researchcsm@mtu.ie

Closing date for applications: 4^th November 2024

Interviews (on-line) anticipated to be held early/mid November 2024

PhD commencement date latest by 1^st January 2024.

 

Funding Acknowledgement

MTU TU RISE PhD scholarship funding is co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27 and the Northern & Western Regional Programme 2021-27.