Sound is more than what we hear — it shapes how we feel, navigate space, and connect with the world.
From immersive installations to soundscapes that enhance well-being or transform virtual realities, the power of audio is rapidly evolving. This new Collection from npj Acoustics brings together research at the forefront of immersive audio and soundscape design.

What is this Collection about?
Step into the future of sound. This npj Acoustics Collection invites groundbreaking research that explores how immersive audio and soundscape design can transform the way we perceive, experience and interact with sound. We are seeking experimental, theoretical and applied studies that push the boundaries of what’s possible in audio — from human-centric soundscapes and responsive systems to sustainable urban acoustics and cutting-edge spatial audio technologies.

Whether you are designing audio for cities, virtual environments or unconventional settings like healthcare and transportation, this Collection offers a platform to showcase innovative work at the intersection of sound, technology, and experience.

We welcome submissions until 10 November 2025.

Why is this Collection important?
Sound shapes our emotions, behavior, and connection to space — yet it’s often overlooked. This Collection shines a spotlight on how immersive and intentional sound design can enhance well-being, improve environments and create deeply engaging experiences across both physical and digital realms.

We are excited about this Collection because it brings together a diverse community of researchers working at the forefront of acoustics, audio engineering, AI, ecology, and design. By curating work that spans disciplines and application areas, we hope to inspire new collaborations and redefine what immersive audio can do for society.

If you are developing novel technologies, evaluating the quality of immersive experiences or reimagining how sound can serve people and the planet — this is your stage.

Why submit to a Collection?
Collections like this one help promote high-quality science. They are led by Guest Editors and In-House Editors who are experts in their fields and supported by a dedicated team of Commissioning Editors and Managing Editors at Springer Nature. Collection manuscripts typically see higher citations, downloads, and Altmetric scores, and provide a one-stop-shop on a cutting-edge topic of interest.

Who is involved?
Dr. Jian Kang is a Professor of Acoustics and Soundscape at University College London, UK. Dr. Hyunkook Lee is Professor of Audio and Psychoacoustic Engineering and the Director of the Applied Psychoacoustics Lab (APL) and Centre for Audio and Psychoacoustic Engineering at the University of Huddersfield. Dr. Josep Llorca-Bofí is a Spanish architect, junior professor at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (Spain), and research group leader at the Fraunhofer-Institute for Building Physics in Stuttgart (Germany).

How can I submit my paper?

Visit the Collection page to find out more about this collection and submit your article.