PhD in Marine Cybernetics and Safety Assurance in Norway

Vacancy for a PhD position in Marine Cybernetics and Safety Assurance for autonomous ships at the Department of Marine Technology.

Research Description

The PhD candidate will work on challenging research problems related to autonomous guidance and control of autonomous ships and ship systems with assured safety. The position will consider the interplay between the overall autonomous operation of the ship and autonomy of the supporting ship systems, such as power and propulsion system, including considerations of future zero-emission power and propulsion solutions.

Duties

Study formulations of normal operating modes, minimum risk conditions (MRCs), and related safety modes for autonomous ship applications.
Design robust switching mechanisms between such modes, as influenced by a situation awareness system, through development of barrier methods for relevant safety-certified guidance algorithms. The project will consider safe and intelligent coupling between the high-level operating modes and the supporting ship systems, such as power and propulsion.
As part of the research activities, you will collaborate actively with some of the partners in the SFI AutoShip Center. You will be encouraged to have a research stay with one of the collaborating universities outside Norway during the research period.

Requirements

The PhD-position’s main objective is to qualify for work in research positions. The qualification requirement is that you have completed a master’s degree or second degree (equivalent to 120 credits) with a strong academic background in [subject area] or equivalent education with a grade of B or better in terms of NTNU’s grading scale. If you do not have letter grades from previous studies, you must have an equally good academic foundation. If you are unable to meet these criteria you may be considered only if you can document that you are particularly suitable for education leading to a PhD degree.
Excellent English skills (written and oral)
Knowledge and experience within risk assessment and safety assurance is preferred and should be highlighted.
Relevant industry experience is an advantage, especially within marine control systems, autonomy, and risk analysis.

Benefits

PhD candidates are remunerated in code 1017, and are normally remunerated at gross from NOK 479 600 per annum before tax, depending on qualifications and seniority. From the salary, 2% is deducted as a contribution to the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund.

The period of employment is 3 years.