The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD Candidate in Human-AI Teaming for Maritime Operations, based at the Department of Design in Trondheim. This position is affiliated with the Shore Control Lab, a research environment focused on human-centered design for safety-critical operational contexts, and is connected to the Norwegian Maritime AI Centre (MAI), a national hub for research, innovation, and education in artificial intelligence for the maritime domain.

The PhD project aims to advance research in human-computer interaction and human factors, specifically targeting human-AI teaming in safety-critical maritime operations. Key research topics include AI transparency and explainability in operational decision-making, interaction design for AI-enabled maritime systems, and evaluation of human performance, workload, trust, and safety-related outcomes. The candidate will employ human-centered design methodologies, iterative prototyping, user testing, and mixed qualitative and quantitative methods to develop and evaluate concepts that facilitate effective collaboration between onboard and remote operators and AI systems.

Duties include conducting research on interaction design and evaluation for human-AI teaming, planning and executing prototyping cycles, performing empirical studies (interviews, observations, usability testing, experiments, simulation-based evaluation), publishing results, and participating in cross-disciplinary activities with MAI partners. The position offers opportunities for collaboration with industry and real-world use cases.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in industrial design, design, HCI, human factors, maritime human factors, informatics, computer science, cognitive psychology, engineering, or another relevant field. A strong academic record, motivation for doctoral research, and documented competence in English are required. Eligibility for admission to NTNU’s PhD programme in Design is necessary. Preferred qualifications include experience with explanations/visualisations for complex data, evaluation of decision-support systems in safety-critical domains, familiarity with maritime operations, and strong prototyping skills. Personal qualities such as independence, initiative, structured work, collaboration, curiosity, motivation, analytical skills, and flexibility are valued. Physical presence at NTNU on a daily basis is required.

The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund, and a 3-year employment period. Additional benefits include working capital for project implementation, membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, free Norwegian language training at a basic level, and access to employee benefits. NTNU promotes diversity and aims to reflect societal diversity in its workforce.

To apply, submit your application electronically via Jobbnorge.no, including transcripts and diplomas, CV, copy or draft of Master’s thesis, project outline, motivation letter, publications or certificates, and names/contact information of three referees. All documents must be in English and submitted by the application deadline of 1 April 2026. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas.

For further information, contact Professor Ole Andreas Alsos ([email protected]) or HR Advisor Marion Wohlen ([email protected]). The position is conditional on external funding and requires daily physical presence at NTNU. The university is committed to responsible research assessment and recognition of a broad range of academic contributions.