Job opening: Junior Researcher for Example Based Recognition

Job description

For our research activities in hybrid and template based speech recognition, we have an open position for a junior researcher working towards the PhD degree. The ESAT speech group has been the leading institute in reviving interest in example based speech recognition. Over the past years we have developed a state-of-the-art hybrid speech recognition system, combining Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) and Example based concepts. While HMMs are a very powerful mathematical concept, they may not be 100% appropriate for modeling speech. The example based methods are better suited to model transients and in integrating certain long span consistencies; however, they may be weaker in terms of generalization. In this project we want to tackle truly long span units and fuse acoustic-phonetic knowledge at the phone, syllable and word level. Together with dealing with these longer span units at the recognition level, we also intend to explore different signal representations which are better suited for these long time spans. The candidate will work on extensions of the template based system. Focus will be on the use of long span units and the integration of pronunciation modeling in the template based framework. The template based system must also be ideally combined with a state of the art HMM recognizer. This project will be carried out in close collaboration with the FWO TELEX project and the EU Marie Curie network Sound to Sense.

Qualifications

Candidates ideally have a university degree in engineering or computer science. Candidates with a general science degree and excellent programming skills may apply as well. Previous experience in speech recognition is not required but knowledge of or experience in any the following areas form an asset:

• speech recognition and speech modelling
• programming experience in C/C++/Python
• strong mathematical and statistical background

Related Projects

TELEX: Combining Acoustic TEmplates and LEXical Modeling

Sound to Sense

Term of the project

Starting any time soom - extendable up to for 4 years

Applications

Interested applicants should send their CV to Prof. .