Mirjam Snellen

Mirjam Snellen is Professor of 'Acoustic data analysis and imaging for aviation noise' at the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), leading research in the Aircraft Noise and Climate Effects (ANCE) section. With 15 years of experience at TU Delft, progressing from Assistant to Associate and now Full Professor, she specializes in acoustic measurement techniques to identify aircraft noise sources.

Her academic journey began with a degree in Theoretical Aerodynamics at TU Delft, followed by work at TNO. Snellen's research focuses on using microphone arrays to create 'acoustic pictures' that distinguish between different noise sources on aircraft (engines, flaps, slats, landing gear). This work is conducted in real-world conditions at Schiphol airport, providing valuable data for developing quieter aircraft designs.

Her research spans acoustic data analysis, aeroacoustics, and noise reduction technologies. Notable aspects include:

• Developing custom microphone arrays for field measurements
• Conducting real-world measurements at Schiphol airport ('living lab')
• Validating noise models with actual aircraft operations
• Researching sound shielding effects (e.g., with Fokker 70 aircraft)
• Exploring porous materials for noise reduction in aircraft and wind turbines

Snellen collaborates extensively with the Wind Energy group and teaches in the Operational Optimisation and Acoustic Imaging modules. She views acoustic data analysis as 'a difficult puzzle' that requires careful consideration of factors between signal transmission and reception, experiencing 'euphoria' when understanding acoustic phenomena.