Mariana Julieta Lopez

Mariana Julieta Lopez serves as Professor in Sound Production and Post Production at the University of York's School of Arts and Creative Technologies since 2016, specializing in sound design, acoustics, and accessibility. Her academic journey began with foundational studies at York, culminating in a PhD focused on virtual acoustics in medieval drama.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD in Theatre, Film, TV and Interactive Media, University of York (2013)
• MA in Sound Production, University of York (dissertation on 'audio film' for visually impaired audiences)

Professor Lopez's research centers on revolutionary approaches to audio description for visually impaired audiences, leveraging spatial audio and personalized access solutions. She pioneers heritage soundscape preservation through projects like 'Cathedral Acoustics' and 'Acoustic Atlas,' while exploring medieval drama acoustics and ASMR applications. Her work bridges technical acoustics with creative practice, evidenced by sound design for theatre productions like 'Monoliths' and the AHRC-shortlisted film 'Shelf Life.' Current investigations span inclusive film/television experiences, gender equality in audio professions, and interactive installations that transform academic research into public engagement.

Analysis of her 37 publications reveals evolving expertise from medieval acoustics (2015-2016) toward accessibility innovation (2018-2023), with increasing emphasis on personalized audio description, spatial sound technologies, and heritage conservation. Her recent outputs demonstrate interdisciplinary convergence of film studies, disability research, and digital humanities.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Shortlisting for AHRC Research in Film Award (2018) for 'Shelf Life' in the Doctoral Award category

Professor Lopez leads substantial research initiatives as Principal Investigator for two AHRC 'Enhancing Audio Description' projects (2016-2018 and 2021-2026), British Academy-funded 'Soundscapes of York Mystery Plays,' and multiple Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowships. She supervises diverse research including Dr. Álvarez Morales' 'Cathedral Acoustics' project and Dr. van Tonder's 'Acoustic Atlas,' mentoring scholars on topics ranging from ADHD narrative structures to gaming accessibility. Her grant portfolio reflects strategic focus on accessibility, heritage, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

She directs collaborative research teams across international projects, frequently partnering with institutions like Glucksman Gallery for practice-based outputs including 'St. Thomas Way' sound installations and 'Waveform' audio-visual exhibits. Her leadership extends to XR Stories-funded productions and advisory roles for disability accessibility symposia.