Peter Leer Bysted

I focus on artificial intelligence, particularly speech enhancement. My main goal is to advance noise-reduction technologies, ensuring clearer audio, easier communication and a better listening experience for hearing aid users.

I never expected to work in hearing care—it wasn’t even on my radar. For years, I played music as a hobby and wanted my professional life to be something different. Initially, I envisioned developing energy infrastructure. However, during my bachelor’s program at DTU, I was invited to undertake a project on otoacoustic emissions (the sounds the ear itself produces), which can be used to diagnose hearing loss. This project took me to Los Angeles to visit a research group, and upon my return. That experience sparked my fascination with hearing healthcare and ultimately steered me toward this field.

I joined Eriksholm during my PhD, where I worked on a project combining AI with models of hearing. The purpose of the project was to generate novel signal-processing strategies for hearing aids based on the outputs of the hearing models. I like that the research here has tangible outcomes, even if it’s not a final product

Problem solving is a big motivator for me, as well as tackling challenges that haven’t been solved before. It’s especially motivating when the solutions lead to something practical, like noise reduction tools. Being able to listen to the results and evaluate their quality is satisfying.

Instead of relying on massive, all-encompassing AI systems, I want to contribute to the development of more tailored, purposeful technologies.

I enjoy reading, cooking, and playing board games with my friends and family. I also enjoy being active and weightlifting.

One of the more exciting breakthroughs, besides the developments in AI since the mid 20^th century, is the development of neural interfaces that can interpret and transmit signals directly between the brain and external devices. While still in the early stages, this advancement has the potential to transform healthcare and significantly enhance quality of life for many.

I hope to see the emergence of advanced technologies that seamlessly integrate with human needs, enhancing and supporting the users. For example, hearing aids that intelligently adapt to environmental changes and the user’s preferences in real-time, seamlessly adjusting themselves without any manual intervention.