Franziska Schroeder

Professor Franziska Schroeder is a prominent academic and saxophonist at Queen's University Belfast's School of Arts, English and Languages. She leads the 'Performance without Barriers' research group, focusing on inclusive music technologies for disabled communities. Her work bridges critical theory, digital performance, and free improvisation practices. Schroeder holds a PhD from the University of Edinburgh and has authored influential books like Soundweaving. She serves on prestigious panels including the UK AHRC and EU EACEA.

• Affiliations: Sonic Arts Research Centre (SARC), AHSS Faculty
• Expertise: Inclusive music tech, VR design, disability inclusion
• Awards: Vice Chancellor’s Research Innovation Prize (2020), HEA Fellowship

Her research emphasizes participatory design with disabled communities, resulting in projects like the AHRC-funded 'Bridging the Gap' initiative. Notable outputs include VR instruments for accessibility and ethnographic studies in Brazil/Portugal. Schroeder has performed globally with figures like Evan Parker and Stelarc, blending artistic practice with academic inquiry.

Recent work explores AI in creative industries and VR's therapeutic applications. She supervises PhDs in music technology and improvisation, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations. Her teaching spans 145 performance students and community partnerships.