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We invite PhD and Master’s+PhD applicants from a range of disciplines and a curious mindset – including engineering, chemistry, design, materials, machine learning, biology, psychology, social science, architecture – to join the interdisciplinary Leverhulme Doctoral School in Nature Inspired Acoustics (NIA) at the University of Strathclyde. This doctoral centre will train future leaders to work in an interdisciplinary team and to analyse technological futures while pioneering the science, devices, and analytical frameworks for making use, or for understanding the roles, of sounds and vibrations in enabling sustainability.
The research themes of the doctoral training centre are:
For October 2025 entry, seven scholarships are offered for: PhD (4 year); and Master’s + PhD (1+4 year) targeted at low income or Black students to support their progression. This includes a tax-free stipend of ~£19,795 per annum. Funding also includes equipment and travel costs, and full home or international fees.
Applicants are encouraged to propose their own research topics. Example topics include, but are not limited to Themes 1 & 2): molecular assembly, machine learning, insect inspired hearing systems, microdevices & sensors, cell bioengineering, 3D printing; Theme 3) nature inspired design for intelligent environments, architectural soundscape design, infrastructure monitoring, living materials, biomimetic communications; and Theme 4) futures thinking on technological advances, using judgment to anticipate nature inspired devices, etc.
Additional information on the programme, research themes and projects is available on the Leverhulme Doctoral School in Nature-Inspired Acoustics webpages.
All students in the NIA School will undertake training carrying out interdisciplinary research, as well as in “Futures” and “Foresight” techniques from the first year to identify bottlenecks in established methodologies, plan research contingencies, and set goals and strategic directions of their projects under the supervision of NIA academics. The interdisciplinary training will be integrated with established professional skills training, including data management, entrepreneurship, project management and communications within the University of Strathclyde’s Researcher Development Programme.
Our programme is deeply committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). True innovation thrives in an environment where diverse perspectives intersect, challenge, and inspire one another. We actively seek candidates from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join the NIA doctoral school. Apply now and become a catalyst for positive change in your field and beyond.
The University of Strathclyde is the third largest university in Scotland, based in the heart of the vibrant city of Glasgow. Strathclyde is a research-intensive university, where our motto “a place of useful learning” lends a focus to everything we do.
To apply, complete our cover letter template (see website) and send it with a detailed CV to nia-leverhulme@strath.ac.uk. Applicants successful at this first stage will be invited to an online interview second stage. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.
The next evaluations will start March 31st 2025.
Informal enquiries can be made to nia-leverhulme@strath.ac.uk