Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral research position:

Acoustic cough detection and processing for healthcare

A postdoc position focussing on the automatic detection, analysis and classification of coughing in unconstrained audio for healthcare monitoring and disease screening is available in the Digital Signal Processing Group of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa.

The project will involve the development of machine learning algorithms that are able to automatically distinguish and characterise coughing on a mobile platform in a noisy environment, with an emphasis on the monitoring of tuberculosis. The project will also include the compilation of data corpus and collaboration with medical practitioners.

Specific project objectives include the gathering of the acoustic data, setting up and managing data annotation, using the gathered data to develop automatic detection and classification systems, optimising the developed algorithms for operation on a mobile device, and producing new and original research into how best to automatically detect and classify coughing in a difficult acoustic environment on a mobile computing platform.

Applicants must hold a PhD (preferably obtained within the last 5 years) in the field of Electronic/Electrical Engineering, Information Engineering, Computer Science, or other relevant discipline. Suitable candidates must also have practical and research experience in a relevant machine learning specialisation such as automatic speech or speaker recognition or sound event detection. The candidate should have an excellent background in statistical modelling, signal processing, and/or audio analysis. Applicants should also have proven prior experience in data compilation, have good programming skills and be able to use high level programming languages for developing prototype systems. Finally, candidates must have excellent English writing skills and have an explicit interest in scientific research and publication.

The position will be available for one year, with a possible extension to a second year, depending on progress and available funds.

Applications should include a covering letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, research projects, conference participation and details of three contactable referees and should be sent as soon as possible to: Prof Thomas Niesler, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602. Applications can also be sent by email to: trn@sun.ac.za. The successful applicant will be subject to University policies and procedures.

Interested applicants are welcome to contact me at the above e-mail address for further information regarding the project.