Acoustic Vibration and Control

Our acoustics vibration and control research is focused on the management of sound and vibrations, including through automated control systems.

Acoustics vibration and control

Our acoustics vibration and control researchers specialise in:

  • active noise and vibration control
  • structural health monitoring
  • dynamics and control
  • thermoacoustics
  • ultrasound
  • underwater acoustics
  • vibration isolation
  • vibro-acoustics
  • waves and oscillating systems.

With sound surrounding us at all times, our work is of direct benefit in virtually all fields of endeavour. Some industries for which it is especially relevant include aerospace, automotive, maritime, rail, defence, construction, manufacturing, power generation and consumer electronics.

To enquire about consulting or working with us on a research project, please contact Professor Carl Howard.

  • Research impact

    Our acoustics vibration and control researchers undertake fundamental and applied research to solve significant industry challenges, and consistently deliver tangible, real-world impact.

    A couple of recent examples include the use of our innovation include:

    • commercial active noise and vibration controllers
    • acoustic and vibration technologies.
  • Consulting services

    Consulting and training services are available in the following areas:

    • active noise and vibration control system development 
    • transmission loss testing
    • device sound power, sound absorption coefficient, and other acoustic and vibration factor measurements
    • structural modal analysis
    • vibration and acoustic condition monitoring 
    • psychoacoustics
    • new instrumentation product development
    • expert witness services.

    We have access to a range of specialist equipment and facilities, including acoustic chambers and wind tunnels.

    Please contact Professor Carl Howard for more information.

  • Our researchers

    We have expertise across a wide range of areas. Many of our researchers are available to assist with research project supervision for Master of Philosophy and Doctor of Philosophy students.

    Research Team Expertise
    Professor Benjamin Cazzolato Acoustics; Vibrations; Control and signal processing
    Dr Mergen Ghayesh  
    Professor Carl Howard Acoustics; Vibrations; Condition monitoring
    Dr Will Robertson Magnetic levitation; Vibration control; Biomechanics
    Professor Anthony Zander Acoustics; Vibrations
    Emeritus Professor Colin Hansen Acoustics; Vibrations
  • Publications and software

    We have produced the following textbooks and software to assist with solving acoustic problems.


    MATLAB and ANSYS textbook cover

    Acoustic Analyses Using MATLAB® and ANSYS® (2014)

    By Carl Q. Howard and Benjamin S. Cazzolato
    ISBN-10: 1482223252 / ISBN-13: 978-1482223255

    This textbook can be purchased from: Google BooksAmazon or CRC Press.

    Software accompanying the book:


    Engineering Noise Control, 5th Edition textbook cover

    Engineering Noise Control, 5th Edition (2017)

    By David A. Bies, Colin H. Hansen and Carl Q. Howard
    ISBN-10: 1498724051 / ISBN-13: 978-1498724050

    This textbook can be purchased from: Amazon.

    Software accompanying the book:

    Engineering Noise Control, 6th Edition (2023)

    Engineering Noise Control, 6th Edition (2023)

    By David A. Bies, Colin H. Hansen, Carl Q. Howard, and Kristy L. Hansen
    ISBN-10: 0367414783 / ISBN-13: 978-0367414788

    This textbook can be purchased from: Amazon  or CRC Press.

    Software accompanying the book:

    Download MATLAB source files

Higher degree by research opportunities

Higher degree by research opportunities

Be involved in engineering discovery, invention, and cutting-edge research through a higher degree by research. Join our Master of Philosophy or Doctor of Philosophy programs. 

HDR opportunities