PhD Studentship Opportunity: Practice-Based Research in Sound and Design (Ho Chi Minh City)

Invitation for Applications: Applications are invited for a full-time PhD studentship at RMIT University based at the Saigon South campus in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This doctoral opportunity is centered on undertaking innovative practice-based research within the field of sound, leading to the award of a PhD in Design.

Program Structure and Supervision: This is a full-time doctoral position requiring residency in Ho Chi Minh City, with an expected study duration of at least three years. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research environment and benefit from a dedicated supervisory team. Guidance will be led by senior supervisor Dr. Jordan Lacey at Melbourne campus and assisted by associate supervisor Dr. Renick Bell based in Ho Chi Minh City. This research takes place as part of the Design and Sonic Practice (DSP) research group in the School of Design at RMIT University. This arrangement ensures robust mentorship and an international perspective. In addition to a fee waiver, candidates would apply for a stipend through RMIT which covers living expenses in Vietnam. The tuition fee waiver is provided for 4 years from the date that candidates commence their study. The stipend scholarship is for 3.5 years. Application to the scholarship should be made after consultations with the supervisors. More information is available here: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/careers-opportunities/scholarships/research/rmit-vietnam-scholarship

Research Focus and Methodology: The core of this PhD program lies in practice-based research – generating new knowledge and understanding through the act of making and critical reflection. We are seeking candidates interested in exploring contemporary sound practices and theories. Areas of particular interest include:

• Eco-social approaches and acoustic ecology practices in sound art/design
• The design and study of affective sonic environments
• Public sound art installations (both indoor and outdoor contexts)
• Algorithmic art technology and its application in sound-based creative practice
• Live coding, improvisation, and interactive sonic systems
• Aesthetic theories informing sound practices, particularly from pragmatic philosophy or psychology

While these are areas of focus, proposals addressing related themes within practice-based sound research are also welcome. The research should be shown to have impact in Vietnam; this can be developed with the supervisors.

Expected Outcomes: The PhD journey will involve the creation of a significant portfolio of practice-based work (which may include installations, performances, software, artifacts, etc.) alongside a substantial written dissertation contextualizing the practice and articulating its contribution to knowledge. Research progress and outcomes will be presented via platforms such as the Practice Research Symposium (PRS), and the final work typically culminates in a public exhibition or event.

Application Process: Interested candidates are requested to submit the following materials to express their interest:

1. A current curriculum vitae (CV) detailing academic background and relevant experience.
2. Links to an online portfolio showcasing examples of previous practical work (e.g., sound design, compositions, installations, technical projects).
3. A concise research statement (maximum 500 words) outlining your proposed area of doctoral study, your potential research questions, and how your interests align with the themes described above.

Submission and Inquiries: Please compile these documents and submit them via email to Jordan and Renick at the following email addresses:

jordan.lacey@rmit.edu.au

renick.bell@rmit.edu.vn

For preliminary inquiries regarding the studentship or potential research topics, please feel free to make contact via the same email address.