At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop and coordinate competitive research proposals in audio and acoustic engineering.
- Company: Join the Institute of Sound Recording, a leading centre for psychoacoustic engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for publication, and professional development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with access to cutting-edge research infrastructure.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in audio research while building your academic profile.
- Qualifications: PhD in engineering, computer science, or acoustics with strong methodological skills.
The predicted salary is between 46970 - 46970 £ per year.
The Institute of Sound Recording (IoSR) is seeking a high-potential postdoctoral researcher to join us as Research Catalyst Fellow, strengthening the IoSR’s research and external funding (fixed term up to Oct 2028). This role offers the opportunity to build your research profile while helping the Institute develop ambitious research programmes, secure external funding and produce high-quality outputs and meaningful impact.
Working closely with the IoSR’s academic staff across its research areas in audio and acoustic engineering, and with our industry and academic partners, you will:
- Develop research ideas into competitive proposals.
- Identify opportunities and help build the consortia needed for collaborative bids.
- Develop and coordinate competitive proposals for funding bodies such as the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), Horizon Europe, and industry.
- Proactively identify external funding opportunities that advance the IoSR’s research priorities.
- Help colleagues develop fundable programmes of work.
- Make substantive intellectual and methodological contributions, from shaping research questions and study designs to generating pilot evidence and writing applications.
- Develop a sustainable, externally funded research portfolio that supports your academic development and the IoSR’s research ambitions.
Proposals that leverage AURORA³, the IoSR’s new national strategic infrastructure for audio, acoustics and AI research, are expected to form part of this portfolio. Alongside your collaborative research responsibilities, you will have protected time for research you lead. This will support the development of your research profile and publication pipeline in leading journals and conferences, complemented by opportunities to contribute to publications arising from collaborative projects.
You will hold a PhD in engineering, computer science, acoustics, or a related area by the appointment start date and bring strong methodological skills, a promising publication record or pipeline, and the ability to develop rigorous research ideas and persuasive proposals. We are looking for a proactive and collegial researcher who can work effectively across disciplines and build productive relationships with academic colleagues and external partners.
Your research will address questions in audio and acoustic engineering with applications in areas such as immersive media, communications, consumer audio and hearing health. We welcome expertise across signal processing, spatial audio, psychoacoustics, and machine learning for audio.
About the Institute of Sound Recording (IoSR): The Institute of Sound Recording (IoSR) at the University of Surrey is an internationally leading centre for research in psychoacoustic engineering, combining acoustics, auditory perception, signal processing and machine learning. The IoSR is also home to the world-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.
£38,448 to £46,970 per annum
Research Catalyst Fellow in Audio in Guildford employer: UAG
Queen Mary University of London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters academic excellence and innovation. With opportunities for professional development and the unique experience of teaching in both London and Hainan, China, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on students' academic journeys.
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We think this is how you could land Research Catalyst Fellow in Audio in Guildford
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Catalyst Fellow in Audio in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Research Catalyst Fellow in Audio, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at UAG a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to UAG specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at UAG
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with UAG, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like UAG want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
