PhD position: Virtual Reconstruction of the Acoustics of Paris’ Notre-Dame Cathedral
PhD Position opening for the reconstruction of the acoustic heritage of Notre-Dame Cathedral through historically informed simulations. The project is funded by the “Chantier CNRS Notre-Dame”, and will be carried out in collaboration with national and international research projects related to the Cathedral.
When we think of the great architectural achievements of history, such as the Gothic cathedrals, their importance is strongly linked to their acoustic environment. The acoustics of a heritage site is an intangible result of its construction and its tangible layout. We will explore how, through measurements, research, and virtual reconstructions, the acoustics of one of the most remarkable heritage spaces in France can be documented, reconstructed, and experienced. The focus is on the preservation and digital reconstruction of a heritage site, bringing it back from the ashes by examining its evolution and importance in history.
Type of Contract
PhD Student contract / Thesis offer
The thesis project consists in helping to create virtual reconstructions of the acoustics of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris, in its past and future states. The simulator will be used to study the impact of acoustics and the environment on different configurations of use in collaboration with historians, heritage architects, and musicologists. The thesis work will contribute to the research and documentation of the site, acoustic measurements, and the creation of ecologically valid geometric acoustic models.
Candidate profile
The candidate, with a master’s degree in acoustics or a related field, will have the necessary skills to work at the crossroads of room acoustics modeling, psychoacoustics, and archaeological acoustics (archeoacoustics). A real interest/passion for history would be an added asset. The ability to work independently and in groups is essential for the successful candidate. Motivation, self-discipline, and maturity are required for this highly interdisciplinary and collaborative project. The candidate should be comfortable with communicating in French or English (orally and in writing).
Computer skills are also necessary, for virtual reality prototype and integration of experimental tests. Knowledge of MatLab, MaxMSP, programming in C/C++ or python, and Unity would be benefitial.
How to apply
Additional information
