Our PhD research programmes in Cambridge will allow you to explore your own interests in music and performance technology, supported by the expertise of our staff. At Anglia Ruskin, you’ll find staff members who are particularly active in the following areas: music composition (instrumental and electronic) algorithmic composition (involving both hardware and software development) live, real-time notation and its role in algorithmic composition, performance and improvisation live, technology-mediated interaction in performance and improvisation and the notion of liveness in interaction human computer interaction in music, in particular the role of movement, gesture and interaction from live performer interaction between these elements and live capture of performed audio and its influence on live notation, performance and improvisation. The interdisciplinary nature of our research creates a rich and stimulating environment for staff and students. You’ll benefit from a variety of research-oriented events, including our Faculty and Departmental research seminar series, performance events and international conferences. We enjoy links with the wider community, including local arts venues like The Junction, the Cambridge Arts Picturehouse and Kettle's Yard; the University of Cambridge's Centre for Research into Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (CRASSH); and various NHS health providers.

We’ll provide you with many opportunities for career development and training, in areas like writing up a paper for publication; placing an academic article; giving a conference paper; the doctoral writing style; updates on research methods and literature searches; internet training; editing skills for doctoral research; subsequent monograph publication; and dealing with festivals, agents, and publishers. You might also be able to take on teaching responsibilities in the department, or organise research events like seminars and conferences. In conjunction with the University’s research support, you can request specific support for writing-up, conference papers, general research methods and other research skills if you need it.