Audio for Virtual and Augmented Reality

Recent developments in low cost VR displays have led to a resurgence of research into binaural 3-D audio. Whilst a good 3-D audio experience can be given using the state of the art technologies, there are still many problems to be solved. For instance, for Virtual Reality systems there is the issue of correct localisation of the sound to the VR visuals. For accurate audio rendering binaural filters should be created for the individual, but this is costly and time consuming. Instead, we are investigating approaches to manipulating generic sets of binaural filters to the individual. Ultimately, the rendering must also sound good - timbral quality is immensely important and needs to be preserved. Within the realm of Augmented Reality there is also the matching of virtual sound objects to real-world room acoustics to create a plausible impression of AR source distance and depth. This is a significant challenge, particularly if the user is in an environment that is unknown to the rendering software, which must in turn intelligently create a plausible reverberant field. The project is open to PhD or MSc level.

Entry requirements:

Candidates should have (or expect to obtain) a minimum of a UK upper second class honours degree (2.1) or equivalent in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, Music Technology or a closely related subject.

How to apply:

Applicants should apply via the University’s online application system at https://www.york.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/apply/. Please read the application guidance first so that you understand the various steps in the application process.