This week’s staff spotlight features Mark Dring, Senior Lecturer and Programme Lead for Acoustics at the University of Derby. With a mission to elevate listening experiences, Mark’s expertise spans acoustics, auralization, and spatial audio across multiple programs. Returning to Derby in 2013 felt like a full circle moment for Mark, an alumnus of the university himself. His memorable journey includes the exhilarating rush of facing a lecture theater full of students for the first time. Looking ahead, Mark envisions sustainability and AI shaping the future of acoustics. Beyond academia, he enjoys drumming and video games. Currently focused on completing his PhD, beyond this Mark aims to explore research on virtual spaces.
Mark Dring
What is your name?
Mark Dring
What is your quest?
To make all our listening experiences more sonically detailed.
What is your favourite colour?
What is your hometown?
Nottingham
What did you do before coming to Derby?
Programme Leader for Music Technology at a further education college.
When did you start at Derby?
Student: 1999-2002
Staff: 2013
Why did you choose to work at the University of Derby?
The University of Derby provided the education that prepared me for my career. It felt like a full circle moment when the chance to lecture here became available.
What is your current role?
Senior Lecturer and Programme Lead for Acoustics
What programme(s) do you teach on?
BSc (Hons) Sound, Light, and Live Event Engineering
BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
MSc Audio Engineering
IOA Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control
MSc Applied Acoustics
What are your areas of expertise?
Acoustics, Auralisation and Spatial Audio
What has been your most memorable experience from your time working at Derby?
My first lecture session and stepping into a lecturer theatre with over 100 people with all eyes on me! It was a massive difference from what I had been used to before – the adrenaline just kicked in and I don’t remember if it went good or bad!
What do you think is the next “big thing” in your field?
Sustainability in acoustics will continue to see growth, with the requirement of sustainable materials for acoustic treatments. A.I. will also have a bigger role to play in the prediction of environmental noise and effective design of spaces.
What’s a hobby or interest you have outside of your university work?
I enjoy playing the Drums, although this ‘enjoyment’ is not always shared by my family! I also like to relax by playing video games. It’s funny how this is the same answer my 16-year-old self would have given!
What is your favourite museum?
The Vatican Museums
Is there a work-related project you’re particularly excited about?
Right now, I can’t think of anything outside of completing my PhD. I’m hoping after this I will take my research down the route of virtual spaces.