Research Engineer in Audio, Acoustics and AI

An exciting opportunity to join the AURORA³ team to pioneer next-generation infrastructure for audio, acoustics, and AI. 

AURORA³ is a new strategic facility at the University of Surrey supporting cutting-edge research in audio, acoustics, and artificial intelligence (AI). It will incorporate a state-of-the-art acoustic anechoic chamber equipped with a spherical loudspeaker array and a world-first variable acoustics room enabling reverberation times as well as room volume to be precisely controlled. Our vision for AURORA³ is to bring the A³ (audio, acoustics and AI) community together, produce high-quality data resources that enable substantial advances in the development of technologies and science relating to sound and hearing, and foster a mindset that encompasses inclusion, rigorous inquiry and pathways for realising societal and economic benefit.

AURORA³ will establish National Strategic Infrastructure, accessible to researchers in industry and academia alike. It is supported by a £2.2 million investment from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), in addition to significant contributions from the University of Surrey and the 18 AURORA³ partners. 

We are seeking to appoint a Research Engineer to help design, implement, and operate AURORA³. 

YOUR PROFILE

You will have a strong background in acoustics and audio engineering, software development, and technical writing/documentation. Ability to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders will be essential. We particularly welcome candidates with experience in psychoacoustic listening tests and machine/deep learning. A PhD in a relevant area is desirable. Depending on experience, the role may additionally involve shaping strategic direction, including co-writing of grant proposals and mentoring PhD students. 

WHAT WE CAN OFFER

The University of Surrey is a global university with a world-class research profile and an enterprising spirit, located in one of the safest counties in England, within 35 minutes of London by train and minutes away from the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

The successful candidate will be hosted by the Institute of Sound Recording (IoSR), an internationally-recognised centre for acoustic engineering research. The IoSR is also home to the renowned Tonmeister degree in Music and Sound Recording, which has produced a stream of highly successful graduates who have collectively received numerous accolades, including three Oscars, twelve Grammys, six Emmys, and twelve BAFTAs. AURORA³ is delivered in collaboration with the Centre for Vision, Speech and Signal Processing (CVSSP), globally recognised for pioneering 3D computer vision and spatial audio, founder of Surrey Institute for People-Centred AI (PAI), and host of the new £8 million CoSTAR AI compute facility. Together, the IoSR and CVSSP they create a vibrant network offering world-class research, cutting-edge facilities, and industry and academic partnerships.

We offer a competitive remuneration package, including relocation assistance where applicable,  market-leading pension scheme, and staff development opportunities.

HOW TO APPLY

Informal enquiries by email are welcomed to Professor Enzo De Sena (e.desena@surrey.ac.uk).

Please read the detailed Job Description (under Further Details) on the University website.

Please apply on the University website with your CV and cover letter outlining why you are interested in the position also answering the criteria questions. Interviews will be held on 27/June. 

Closing Date: 18 Jun 2025

Area: Technical & Experimental

Salary: £37,174 to £45,413 per annum Fixed Term until 30/06/2027