Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 February 2025
Campus
Launceston
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
The maritime industry is undergoing a rapid transformation with two major innovations: self-navigating (autonomous) ships and zero-emission ships, which utilize clean fuels like hydrogen and ammonia. However, integrating these technologies presents significant challenges. Autonomous ships rely on complex computer systems to make decisions without human intervention, while zero-emission ships use fuels that can be hazardous if not managed correctly. Although numerous studies have analysed the safety of each technology individually, there is currently no effective method for evaluating both technologies simultaneously.
To address this gap, it is crucial to develop a new approach to ensure the safety of ships that are both autonomous and zero-emission. This is important because such ships have the potential to make shipping more cost-effective, safer, and environmentally friendly. This project aims to create a new safety analysis framework that encompasses both the advanced technologies used by autonomous ships and the clean fuels used by zero-emission ships. This represents a significant step towards ensuring that the future of shipping is both safe and green.
The objective of this PhD project is to develop an innovative safety analysis framework for autonomously operated zero-emission marine vessels. This project will specifically involve:
1. Identifying the Unique Safety Aspects: Examine the distinct safety challenges posed by autonomous ships and zero-emission ships.
2. Investigating Existing Safety Analysis Methods: Review and evaluate current safety analysis methods and frameworks for both autonomous and zero-emission ships.
3. Developing a New Safety Analysis Framework: Create an innovative safety analysis method or framework tailored for autonomously operated zero-emission ships.
4. Demonstrating the Framework: Validate the new method or framework through a case study.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- Applicants must be able to undertake the project on-campus
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Competence in risk analysis of marine vessels or autonomous systems or zero-emission systems.
- Ability to present and publish your research results.
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr T M Rabiul Islam to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 February 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
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