The Centre for Audio, Acoustics and Vibration fosters multidisciplinary collaboration and strengthens partnerships with universities and industry to develop cutting-edge solutions for both current and future challenges in audio, acoustics, and vibration.
Key research themes
Our multidisciplinary research spans four key themes, each contributing to advancements in their respective fields.
Audio and Acoustics
Theme lead: Sipei Zhao
The Audio and Acoustics Theme spans fundamental acoustics, advanced signal processing and machine learning, driving innovation across diverse fields such as audio engineering, intelligent noise control, electroacoustic systems, building acoustics, and immersive sound field design. By merging physics, data science, and engineering, we develop smart acoustic materials and scalable noise control, and sound design solutions for industries like transportation, manufacturing, construction and infotainment, shaping a future where sound science meets real-world impact.
Dynamics, Vibration and Control
Theme lead: Professor JC Ji
Our research covers a wide range of fields, including dynamics, vibration and vibration control, machine condition monitoring, fault diagnosis and prognostics, and digital-twin based modelling, with applications in mechanical, structural, space, defence, robotics, transport, infrastructure and mining engineering. Our research has been well supported by Australian government funding agencies and industry partners, including ARC LP and DP projects, CRC, Innovation Connections, Sydney Metro, and various industry R&D projects. We have published over 130 JCR Q1 papers in these areas.
Mechatronics and Microsystems
Theme lead: Dr Michael Ruppert
Our research sits at the intersection of electronics, control engineering, and mechanical engineering, focusing on microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and precision mechatronic systems. We specialize in micro- and nanopositioning, piezoelectric MEMS actuators and sensors, and low-power ultrasonic and acoustic MEMS. These innovations have key applications in scanning probe microscopy for advancing high-throughput nanometrology.
Vibroacoustics and Uncertainty
Theme lead: Dr Mahmoud Karimi
We conduct multidisciplinary research on structural vibrations and sound interactions as well as uncertainty quantification in mechanical systems. The Vibroacoustics and Uncertainty Theme aims to predict and mitigate noise and vibration in complex structures under deterministic or stochastic excitation, ensuring reliable engineering designs for aerospace, transport and underwater applications.
Our research facilities
- Acoustics Lab – lead by Dr Sipei Zhao
- Bioacoustics Lab – lead by Associate Professor Sebastian Oberst
- Micro and Nanomechatronic Systems Lab – lead by Dr Michael Ruppert
- Physical Computation Lab – lead by Associate Professor Sebastian Oberst
- Vibration Lab – lead by Associate Professor Ben Halkon