Framework for research on improved life quality

The Sound Environment Center at Lund University has for over ten years hosted interdisciplinary research on sound environment issues promoting an exchange of ideas between researchers through research projects, interdisciplinary symposiums and publications. The center aims at developing a holistic view to a field that is scientifically fragmented. Ranging from acoustics, noise abatement and soundscape understanding, to epidemiological mapping of health, biological effects, hearing and voice disorders, music and cognition, the center covers a multitude of facets of sound and noise. The center is connecting to national and international research networks and partners. Access to high tech labs in connection with the humanistic laboratory at Lund university opens for interdisciplinary projects making use of eye-tracking technology, articulograph, virtual reality lab and media- and sound recording studio. Current major projects focuses on health and cardiovascular issues, noise, acoustics, voice production, speech intelligibility and understanding, as well as eye tracking studies of cognitive aspects of sound exposure. Results from research projects are aimed at providing information and advice to stakeholders and community all in favor of development through a quieter future. The preliminary outcome of interdisciplinary design has been positive and fruitful leading to deepened network collaborations and continuously new research projects.