DC1 - Amir Hafez
Distributed control algorithms for active device casings
Amir Hafez completed his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at Qatar University's College of Engineering from 2014 to 2019. During this period, Amir developed a solid foundation in mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on mechanical design, mechanical vibrations, and the design of mechatronics and control systems.
In 2019, Amir has started his Master's in mechanical engineering program at the same institution. Throughout his postgraduate studies, his work was inclined towards research in active control systems field and specifically about active noise and structural vibrations control. He gained background in digital signal processing and adaptive filtering algorithms. His master's thesis is about development and assessment of a mobile wireless in-ear microphone active noise control system within enclosed environments. Where his work is focused on integrating an in-ear microphone, a set of transceivers with the existing active noise control system, considering background system identification to allow for proper secondary path tracking during stationary and mobile experiments.
Currently, Amir is in the initial stages of his doctoral studies as a first-year candidate at the Silesian University of Technology (SUT) in Gliwice, Poland. His doctoral project revolves around prototyping and implementation of "Distributed control algorithms for active device casings". The main objective of his project is to perform enhanced global noise control of a casing by carrying out experiments based on a numerically investigated prototype that's aim is to reduce the computational complexity anticipated in the working algorithm.
His interests are not limited to research in active noise control in environments only, he is also interested in performing research in industrial areas, such as, cabin noise control of automobiles and aircrafts.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Amir Hafez
Mobile Number: +48 731 459 676
Email:
DC2 - Khaled Maamoun
Active Device Casings with an Open Part or Made from a Different Material
Khaled Maamoun's academic and professional career includes earning an M.Sc. in Automation and Control Engineering from Politecnico di Milano and a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering with honors from Alexandria University. He gained valuable experience during his tenure as a Control Systems Engineer at ALTEN Italia, specializing in the development of clustering tools for LiDAR point cloud data and FOC (Field-Oriented Control) algorithms for smart pump suspension systems.
Khaled's academic journey has also encompassed participation in various international contests, such as ROV MICHIGAN 2014 and IRC INDIA 2013. These experiences have not only honed his problem-solving skills but have also enriched his ability to collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams. Furthermore, these experiences have fueled his research interests in the fields of control systems, mathematical and FEM (Finite Element Method) modeling, and signal processing.
Khaled is currently pursuing his doctoral studies at the Silesian University of Technology (SUT) in Gliwice, Poland. The primary objective is to control the vibration of device walls, ultimately reducing noise emissions in the surrounding room or area. This approach extends to practical scenarios where devices are not entirely enclosed. It focuses on minimizing noise transmission through the respective walls and managing noise exiting through openings. Additional sound sources are integrated to support the vibrating walls, resulting in a comprehensive reduction in noise within the room.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Khaled Maamoun
Telephone: +48-572417343
Email:
DC3 - Alkahf Aboutiman
Deep learning-based active control of noise transmission through encapsulated structures
Alkahf Aboutiman has built a strong academic background in the fields of physics and acoustical engineering. His educational journey commenced with the attainment of a Bachelor's degree in Physics at Sorbonne University, France, laying the foundations for his understanding of fundamental sciences. During his undergraduate studies, he had the opportunity to complete an internship at the Pierre Gilles de Gennes Institute, where he explored the use of microfluidic chips. He then continued his education with a Master's in Physics at the University of Paris-Saclay, where his research internship focused on fiber coating in a liquid bath, contributing to his understanding of physical phenomena. In 2021/2022, Alkahf chose to further specialize by pursuing a Master's degree in Acoustics at Sorbonne University. This path led him to a research internship at the National Institute for Research and Security (INRS), where he contributed to the evaluation of uncertainty equations for acoustic quality indicators in open spaces.
After graduating, he had the opportunity to work in a company specializing in acoustics for the building, environment, and industry. In June 2023, he assumed the role of the DC3 in the INNOVA project, funded by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie grant. His Ph.D. research focuses on "Deep learning-based active control of noise transmission through encapsulated structures." His work aims to push the boundaries of acoustical research by utilizing deep learning algorithms to predict and control acoustic pressure in complex environments, such as the interior of cars, airplanes, and other architectural spaces. He is developing specific algorithms for temporal and spectral modeling of acoustic waves, as well as deep learning-based active noise control methods, while also creating an advanced simulation environment to validate his results. His research holds the promise of significant advancements in the field of active noise control, with potential implications for improving sound comfort in enclosed spaces.
Contact details:
Telephone: +39(0)223998453
Email:
DC4 - Chao Liang
Direct data-driven active noise cancelation design based on near-field acoustic holography
Chao Liang obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Flight Vehicle Design and Engineering from Xi’an Jiaotong University in 2018, and subsequently majored in Solid Mechanics at Zhejiang University. In 2021, he completed his Master’s thesis ‘Study of Multi-Field Coupling Behaviors of Piezoelectric Semiconductors Incorporating Surface Effects and Its Control’, which was awarded Outstanding Master Thesis of Zhejiang Province.
Afterwards, He worked as an assistant engineer in the noise control office of a flight vehicle research institution. During this period, he was exposed to the practical design and experiments of cabin noise control including passive and active aspects. Some interests gradually aroused his enthusiasm and he intended to further deepen his knowledge and expertise in the noise control area.
In 2023, he successfully applied for the DC4 position within the MSCA IN-NOVA project. He is currently a PhD candidate in Politecnico di Milano. His main work is to 1) predict the global sound field according to near-field noise; 2) design direct data-driven control algorithms to reduce global-field noise. His interests include Acoustic Signal Processing, Active Noise Control, Sound Prediction, Direct Data-Driven, and Neural Networks.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Chao Liang
Email:
DC5 - Tahmida Islam
Development of fast and distributed signal processing algorithms for active noise control
Tahmida Islam has completed her Bachelor of Science (2011-2015) in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) from Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET), Bangladesh. She then explored working in the industry. She worked as an R&D engineer at RFL, Ltd., one of the largest manufacturing companies in Bangladesh.
Tahmida's passion for learning has driven her to pursue her Master of Engineering (2017-2019) in Mechatronics and Automation Control from the University of Technology Malaysia, Malaysia. As a master's student, she joined the Center of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIRO), where she worked on designing and developing Exoskeleton (human assistive devices) for industrial workers. The Ministry of Malaysia funded this project. Tahmida was awarded 'The Best Postgraduate Student' for her performance and achievements during her Master's degree.
Tahmida returned to Bangladesh after finishing her Master's degree and joined as a Lecturer in the Dept. of Computer Engineering at American International University Bangladesh (AIUB). She is currently on a study leave from her position.
In June 2023, she joined the GTAC lab as a first-year PhD student in Telecommunications at the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Spain. Her doctoral project revolves around developing and investigating distributed ANC systems using acoustic nodes in static and dynamic environments. Her research work also includes finding fast and distributed algorithm solutions for network self-adapting of node placements or clustering objectives according to system dynamics.
As a recent MSCA member, Tahmida is ready to explore her doctoral journey with a learning mind, hard work, and enthusiasm while using all her knowledge and experience.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Tahmida Islam
Email:
DC6 - Gavin Dies
Passive and active approaches for noise reduction in automotive applications
Gavin Dies completed their Bachelor’s degree at Tennessee Technological University in Mechanical Engineering in 2022. During this time, they also completed a yearlong co-op at a Domtar Paper and Pulp mill as well as an internship as an acoustics engineer at Lochinvar, a water heater company, where I worked in Aeroacoustics.
In an effort to expand their knowledge in acoustics, Gavin completed the Masters of Science in Ocean Engineering at the University of Rhode Island with a concentration in Underwater Acoustics. Their thesis work modeled the acoustic attenuation of bubble curtains during the installation of offshore wind turbines at the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Farm. During their time at The University of Rhode Island, Gavin also had the opportunity to participate in a 23 day research cruise that included acoustic measurements in deep and shallow water environments. This hands-on experience included deployment and recovery of multiple types of systems that gathered pertinent data to further explore the properties of sound in the ocean environment.
Gavin joined the MSCA IN-NOVA project under the DC6 position in September 2025 and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at KU Leuven, where they will be exploring material testing through waveguides. Their interests include noise control, environmental acoustics, and education in acoustics.
Contact details:
Email:
DC7 – Andrey Hense
Vibro-acoustic design feature extraction using Artificial Intelligence
Andrey Hense obtained his Mechanical Engineering degree from the Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC). As an undergraduate researcher, he began at the Laboratory of Noise and Vibration in 2010. His interest in simulation tools and experimental testing resulted in master’s studies that analyzed the relationship between domestic compressor pulsation and refrigeration system noise. The development of Finite and Boundary Element vibro-acoustic models, along with experimental validation and analysis, built a strong background in Noise and Vibration techniques.
Transitioning into the corporate arena, Andrey joined Embraco's acoustic specialist team in 2016. Developing cutting-edge compressors, he utilized simulation tools and an array of experimental methods to drive innovation. His role extended beyond technical prowess, encompassing customer interaction, problem-solving, working with multicultural teams in large-scale global projects.
Presently, Andrey stands as a PhD fellow within the IN-NOVA MSCA Doctoral Network program at Siemens Industry Software NV. His doctoral degree is enrolled at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KU Leuven). Andrey's future aspirations revolve around pushing the frontiers of NVH simulation and analysis, bridging academia and industry to optimize products and develop innovative solutions.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Andrey Hense
Email:
DC8 – Maria Juliana Garzón Vargas
Perceptual broadband ANC equalizer with spatially distributed user-selected profiles
Maria Juliana Garzón Vargas holds a bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering from the Industrial University of Santander (UIS), Colombia. Her career in research began as an undergraduate student when she joined the High Performance and Scientific Computing Center (SC3-UIS), a platform in the Advanced and Large-Scale Computing Research Group (CAGE). While there, she took the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of accelerated computing, which encouraged her to focus her final project on this field by designing software architecture for a high-performance embedded computing platform. She was honored to be accepted to present the results of this work in two different international conferences: the 2016 ACM/IEEE Supercomputing Conference (SC16) and the NVIDIA GPU Technology Conference 2017 (GTC17).
After graduating in 2017, she spent the next 5 years building a professional career in the fields of technology, billing, and logistics.
In January 2023, she was awarded the Marie Skłodowska-Curie grant for the Doctoral Network project HORIZON-MSCA-2022-DN-01: “Active reduction of noise transmitted into and from enclosures through encapsulated structures” funded by the European Commission.
She is currently a first-year doctoral candidate in Telecommunications at the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Spain. Her doctoral project is being carried out at the Audio and Communications Signal Processing Group (GTAC) belonging to the Institute of Telecommunications and Multimedia Applications (iTEAM). The main goal is to develop a practical road active noise equalization system that can provide different noise profiles at a set spatially confined regions around the head of different passengers inside a vehicle cabin.
Her interests include audio signal processing, adaptive filtering algorithms, noise equalization algorithms, the behavior of sound in enclosures, active noise control systems, noise control in vehicles and model-based testing in real-time target computers.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Maria Juliana Garzón Vargas
Telephone: +34 699832111
Email:
DC9 - Said El Kadmiri Pedraza
Contribution analysis of vibrating aircraft interior parts to overall cabin noise
Allow us to introduce Said El Kadmiri Pedraza, a dedicated doctoral candidate with a genuine passion for the pursuit of knowledge. His educational journey at the University of Zaragoza, Spain, encompassed achievements in both his Bachelor's (2015-2019) and Master's (2020-2021) degrees in Mechanical Engineering. Said's academic endeavors were acknowledged with the "Extraordinary Prize" during his Master's program, reflecting his commitment to his studies.
Curiously, Said's intellectual pursuits extended beyond his homeland, as he engaged in a rewarding Erasmus exchange in Genova, Italy, spanning from 2018 to 2019. In addition to his academic pursuits, he derives solace from the harmonies of music and satisfies his curiosity through explorations of various global landscapes.
Said's competencies span a diverse range of disciplines—ranging from the intricacies of gas turbines and combined cycles to the intricate realm of photovoltaic energy. Furthermore, he adeptly navigates through the complexities of applying Finite Element Method techniques for structural analyses, as well as Computational Fluid Dynamics.
His doctoral objectives revolve around creating an advanced aircraft acoustic cabin simulator using the Finite Element Method, with the aim to pinpoint noise sources—particularly the panels of the secondary structure of the aircraft—and trace noise paths. His work also includes refining simulation techniques for better accuracy and efficiency. Going beyond theory, Said intends to implement active and passive noise reduction methods, thus contributing substantially to improving the acoustic environment within aircraft cabins.
As he stands on the brink of the MSCA adventure, Said's unwavering determination and versatile skill set position him to make significant contributions and embrace the journey ahead with enthusiasm and purpose.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Said El Kadmiri Pedraza
Telephone: +49 531 295-1543
Email:
DC10 - Praaveesh Raaj
Active aircraft interior parts with structully integrated sensors for cabin noise reduction
Praaveesh Raaj completed his Master in Mechatronics Engineering at the University of Southampton. During his postgraduate studies, Praaveesh built a strong background in advanced mechatronic systems, mechanical design, control systems, and signal processing.
Currently, Praaveesh is in the initial stages of his doctoral studies as a first-year candidate at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Braunschweig, Germany, enrolled as DC10. His doctoral project, titled “Active aircraft interior parts with structurally integrated sensors for cabin noise reduction,” focuses on developing active noise control for aircraft lining to mitigate cabin noise close to passengers. The work emphasizes a structure-based sensing scheme and modular concept to enable independent and decentralized active interior components.
The integration of these active components will contribute to localized and potentially global reductions in aircraft cabin noise, thereby enhancing passenger comfort.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Praaveesh Raaj
Email:
DC11 - Chung Kwan Lai
Head tracking in local active sound control
Chung Kwan is a passionate researcher in the field of acoustics with a strong academic and professional background. He completed his integrated master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in Acoustics, at the University of Southampton from 2016 to 2020. It was during his undergraduate studies that Chung Kwan discovered his true passion for research, particularly in active control of sound, which ignited his enthusiasm for deepening his expertise in acoustics.
Following his graduation, Chung Kwan further honed his research skills as a research engineer at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). During his time at NTU, he actively contributed to several projects related to active control, gaining practical experience in controller implementation and system design for active control systems. His dedication and contributions to these projects resulted in multiple academic publications related to his work, highlighting his commitment to advancing the field.
Chung Kwan is currently in the early stages of his academic journey as a first-year doctoral candidate at the University of Southampton (UoS) in the United Kingdom. He has been granted the prestigious opportunity to participate in the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) program, which provides support for his research. In his doctoral research, Chung Kwan is determined to push the boundaries of knowledge by incorporating cutting-edge head-tracking techniques into local active control systems. This pioneering research is poised to have a significant impact on the field of acoustics and active control, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of noise comfort and technological applications.
Chung Kwan's journey as a researcher is marked by a deep commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and the application of that knowledge to create innovative solutions. His work exemplifies his dedication to making valuable contributions to the field of acoustics and active control. As he embarks on this exciting doctoral research endeavour, he looks forward to not only expanding his own horizons but also making a meaningful impact in the world of acoustics and beyond.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Chung Kwan Lai | LinkedIn
Email:
DC12 - Achilles Kappis
Directional microphone arrays for remote microphone virtual sensing
Achilles has a background in acoustics and signal processing for acoustics and audio applications. He holds a B.Eng. in Music Technology and acoustics from the Technological Educational Institute of Crete in Greece, where his dissertation project was the characterisation of sound sources in air generated by ultra-fast LASER pulses.
After graduation, he worked as a sound system designer, audio-visual technician and live sound engineer for eleven years. In the meantime, he acquired a Master’s degree in Sound and Music Technologies from the Hellenic Mediterranean University in Greece with his thesis being the prototyping of a twochannel sonic control interface triggered by impulsive sounds.
Over the years he has gathered knowledge and practical experience in the fields of array processing, acoustic and optoacoustic measurements, audio programming and spatial audio. He is currently involved in the IN-NOVA project as a doctoral candidate, combining his interest in the broad topic of sound field estimation with the acquisition of new skills and knowledge on active noise control.
His interests lie in the fields of sound field estimation and reconstruction, computational acoustics, spatial audio and applications in acoustics, and sound field reproduction.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Achilles Kappis
Telephone: +44 7476 595405
Email:
DC13 – Zulfi Aulia Rachman
Noise Barriers with a Soundscape Approach
Zulfi Aulia Rachman obtained his Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Engineering Physics from Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia, with a concentration in Building Physics and Acoustics. While studying, he enriched his acoustics knowledge by collaborating with the Green Building Research Group at Universitas Gadjah Mada and actively participated in both Acoustics Research and commercial projects.
Seeking to deepen his understanding further, Zulfi is currently enrolled in a PhD program in Environmental Design and Engineering at University College London. His research, titled "Noise Barriers with a Soundscape Approach," hopes to offer a fresh perspective on traditional noise barrier designs, aiming for a harmonious balance in indoor sound environments.
On the professional front, Zulfi gained valuable experience as an Acoustical Engineer at Geonoise Asia Co., Ltd, where he addressed and resolved genuine acoustic issues across diverse architectural contexts. Later, his Environmental Sustainability Design Consultant role at GreenA Pte, Ltd. enabled him to participate in sustainable projects. He is earnestly stepping into the position of Research Fellow at UCL Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering.
Recently joining the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), Zulfi brings a passionate drive to every endeavour he undertakes. As he progresses through his PhD journey, he aspires to merge his accumulated knowledge and experiences to impact his area of study significantly.
Contact details:
LinkedIn: Zulfi Aulia Rachman
Email: