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 Infrastructure Engineer, who will be the full-time member of staff dedicated to the design, implementation, and operation of AURORA³, supported by a network of co-investigators, affiliated researchers, external consultants and specialists. The successful candidate will be appointed at Level 4, with salary depending on experience. The preferred start date is as soon as possible, with the earliest possible start on 1/October. The post is initially offered for a fixed term of 2 years.
YOUR PROFILE
You will have a strong background in audio engineering, acoustics, and software development. Ability to collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders will be essential. We particularly welcome candidates with experience in the design and execution of listening experiments. A PhD in a relevant area is desirable but not necessary. 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, 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, 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 apply on the University website answering the criteria questions, together with your CV and a cover letter outlining why you are interested in the position.