Two Ph.D. positions in audio signal processing

Two Ph.D. research positions are available in the KU Leuven Electrical Engineering Department (ESAT), Stadius Centre for Dynamical Systems, Signal Processing and Data Analytics, in the frame of a research project on audio signal processing in ad-hoc wireless transducer array networks. The research activities include: (PhD position 1) The design and evaluation of digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms for acoustic echo and feedback cancellation, active noise control, and sound field control in ad-hoc wireless transducer array networks. (PhD position 2) The design and evaluation of a generic framework for audio signal processing algorithms interaction and tuning in multi-task ad-hoc wireless transducer array networks. The research will be carried out in an international team of signal processing researchers at ESAT-STADIUS. The standard duration of a Ph.D. research project at KU Leuven is 4 years. RESEARCH ENVIRONMENT The STADIUS research division of the Electrical Engineering (ESAT) Department at KU Leuven joins over 100 researchers. One subgroup within STADIUS (20 researchers supervised by Prof. Marc Moonen and Prof. Toon van Waterschoot) performs research on digital signal processing with application to speech and audio processing and digital communications. The focus of the speech and audio processing research is on acoustic signal enhancement, acoustic signal and system modeling, audio analysis, and audio reproduction. Applications range from hearing aids and cochlear implants to hands-free communications, public address and acoustic surveillance systems. http://www.esat.kuleuven.be/stadius RESPONSIBILITIES The Ph.D. researcher will - carry out research on the design and evaluation of audio signal processing algorithms for ad-hoc wireless transducer array networks; - monitor the work plan of the research project and make sure that milestones are achieved and deliverables are finalized in a timely manner; - actively participate in internal research and project meetings; - enroll in a doctoral training program at the Arenberg Doctoral School, and adhere to the doctoral school’s coursework requirements for Ph.D. researchers; - assist in the supervision of Master thesis students; - perform a limited amount of teaching activities (max. 2h per week). PROFILE - Candidates must hold a Master degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent), have a solid mathematical background (e.g. in matrix algebra and statistics) and have taken specialized courses in at least two of the following disciplines: digital signal processing, speech processing, audio signal processing, acoustics, audio engineering. - Research experience (e.g. through Master thesis work or research internships) in digital (audio) signal processing is considered a strong asset. - Experience with Matlab programming is required, and experience with other programming languages (C/C++/Python/...) is considered beneficial. - Excellent proficiency in the English language is required, as well as good communication skills, both oral and written. OFFER - A high-level and exciting international research environment. - A Ph.D. title from one of Europe's top universities (after approximately 4 years of successful research). - A thorough scientific education in the frame of a doctoral training program. - A competitive salary or tax-free PhD grant. - The possibility to participate in local as well as international courses, workshops and conferences. - A one-year position with the possibility of extension for a second, third, and fourth year. INTERESTED? For more information please contact Prof. Marc Moonen and Prof. Toon van Waterschoot, tel.: +32 16 32 17 88, e-mail: marc.moonen@esat.kuleuven.be, toon.vanwaterschoot@esat.kuleuven.be. Applications are to be submitted no later than July 31, 2016, via the online application tool (see link). Please submit: 1) a motivation letter with a statement of skills and research interests 2) a curriculum vitae, including transcripts and possibly GRE/TOEFL results 3) the names and contact information of 1-2 references KU Leuven carries out an equal opportunity and diversity policy.