PhD Candidate in Maritime Fleet Optimization under Regulatory Uncertainty
The Department of Marine Technology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD position focused on maritime fleet optimization under regulatory uncertainty, with a particular emphasis on achieving zero emission shipping. This position is part of the FME MarTrans research center, a major Norwegian R&D initiative for Maritime Energy Transition, involving 65 partners from industry and research and funded by the Research Council of Norway and industrial partners with over NOK 300 million. The project aims to accelerate the energy transition in the shipping industry, supporting both environmental goals and value creation for the Norwegian maritime sector.
The PhD research will address the challenges shipowners face in developing their fleets within a complex and evolving regulatory, technical, and commercial landscape, especially in light of the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) goal of zero emission shipping by 2050. The core objective is to develop models that integrate strategic fleet planning, alternative operational strategies, and regulatory frameworks (including taxes and incentives), providing decision support for both shipowners and policy makers. The research will involve systems analysis, optimization, and operations research, and will require collaboration with SINTEF, the main research partner and project owner, as well as participation in international conferences and research stays.
Supervision will be provided by Professor Stein Ove Erikstad and Associate Professor Benjamin Lagemann. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research community of over 60 PhD students in Marine Technology, benefit from excellent facilities at the new Ocean Technology Center in Trondheim, and have access to career guidance and a supportive, inclusive work environment. The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, with a 2% contribution to the State Pension Fund, and is a 3-year full-time contract (with possible extension for teaching duties).
Applicants must hold a Master's degree in a relevant field (marine technology, industrial engineering, systems engineering, logistics, operations research, or similar), with strong academic performance (grade B or better on NTNU's scale). Master students graduating by summer 2026 and NTNU students finishing before summer 2027 are eligible. Required skills include systems analysis, optimization, and/or operations research, and very good English proficiency. Preferred qualifications include programming/data analysis skills, maritime industry experience, and knowledge of Norwegian or another Scandinavian language (not required). Admission to the Faculty's Doctoral Programme is required within three months of employment, and physical presence at NTNU is expected.
Applications must be submitted electronically via Jobbnorge.no, including transcripts, diplomas, CV, Master's thesis (or draft), motivation letter, publications, and contact information for at least two referees. The application deadline is December 10, 2025. For further information, contact Professor Stein Ove Erikstad ([email protected]).
