PhD Study : Discovering and understanding speech-derived vocal biomarker patterns related to mental health sciences

Apply and key information  

This project is funded by:

    • Canary Speech LLC

Summary

Canary Speech is transforming the use of speech analysis technology for the benefit of diagnosing and treating mental and behavioural health conditions and diseases. Canary’s patented technology enables a new approach to capturing and measuring critical data, through advanced analysis using AI and Machine learning techniques that use features in speech (biomarkers) enabling the replacement of today’s subjective behavioural health measurements with a standard approach to objectively and comprehensively measure an array of data points. Audio samples can be easily acquired using smartphones and are non-invasive. Canary has validated its approach in clinical, FDA drug trials, pharmaceutical, and consumer studies under strict scientific double blinded studies, and is working across a range of diseases including: Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson's, and others.

The research will aim to test and evaluate advanced speech technologies developed by Canary Speech. The contribution to knowledge will arise from the design, development, planning and execution of a series of trials exploring the use of vocal biomarkers, and the analysis of the use of vocal biomarkers in the trials. This research will therefore contribute to a better understanding of these advanced speech analysis technologies. Other contributions can be made to the ethics of AI systems for use in automatic cognitive assessment using speech.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

  • Canary Speech LLC

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £ 15,285 per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

The Doctoral College at Ulster University

Key dates

Submission deadline
Friday 12 February 2021
12:00AM

Interview Date
22 February 2021

Preferred student start date
1 March 2021

Applying

Apply Online  

Contact supervisor

Professor Maurice Mulvenna

Other supervisors