Alan McAlpine

Professor Alan McAlpine is a Professor at the University of Southampton's Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR), where he serves as the director of graduate school for engineering and physical sciences since 2020. He is a key member of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Propulsion Systems Noise and teaches Acoustics on the ISVR's Acoustical Engineering undergraduate and masters programmes, the only UK acoustics degree accredited by both the Institute of Mechanical Engineers and the Institute of Acoustics.

His educational background includes:

• First-class honours in Mathematics from the University of Southampton (1993)
• PhD in Mathematics from the University of Bristol (1997)

Professor McAlpine's research focuses on theoretical prediction methods for aircraft engine noise sources. His work primarily employs analytical and semi-analytical approaches to assess how design parameters affect noise levels. His key research areas include aeroacoustics, duct acoustics, nonlinear acoustics, aircraft engine installation acoustics, and hydrodynamic stability. His research has practical applications in reducing aircraft noise, particularly during critical phases like take-off.

His recent publications reveal a concentrated research trajectory in duct acoustics and aircraft noise prediction, with particular emphasis on fan tone radiation mechanisms, sound propagation through engine ducts, and innovative acoustic liner development for noise reduction. His theoretical frameworks address critical challenges in modern aircraft design, especially regarding spectral broadening of turbine-tones and sound refraction effects caused by fuselage boundary layers.

Professor McAlpine maintains significant external engagement:

• Council of European Aerospace Societies - Aeroacoustics Specialists Committee (2014-present)
• Institute of Acoustics Research Coordination Committee (2011-2020)
• Coordinator of the UK X-Noise Network in Aeroacoustics (2009-2015)

As director of graduate school, Professor McAlpine supervises PhD students including Liam James Tope working on computational modeling. He has secured substantial research funding from EPSRC and the European Union for projects including 'High Frequency Sound Transmission in Flow Ducts,' 'X-Noise EV Project,' 'H2020 - ARTEM,' 'A McAlpine - Spectral Broadening in Aeroacoustics,' and several other EU-funded initiatives focused on aircraft noise reduction.

Professor McAlpine works within the Rolls-Royce sponsored Propulsion Systems Noise group at the ISVR, collaborating with researchers like Dr. David Angland and Dr. Paul Murray. His theoretical work complements the institute's experimental capabilities, contributing to the development of quieter aircraft engine technologies through fundamental understanding of noise generation and propagation mechanisms.