PhD Candidate in AI-Enabled Maritime Systems for Environmental Monitoring Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Ocean Operations and Civil Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) is offering a fully funded PhD position in AI-Enabled Maritime Systems for Environmental Monitoring. This opportunity is part of the COD-SPAWN project, a cross-disciplinary research initiative at NTNU Ålesund focused on developing and piloting next-generation autonomous monitoring systems for Atlantic cod spawning and pollution dynamics in Borgundfjorden, Norway. The project leverages unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) equipped with advanced sensors and AI-driven data analysis pipelines to enable real-time, high-resolution detection of cod eggs, microplastics, and suspended contamination in a fjord historically affected by heavy metals and other pollutants.

As a PhD candidate, you will join a core team of researchers and contribute to sensor payload development, systems integration on USVs, real-time environmental monitoring, and AI-driven data analysis. The research scope is adaptable to your interests and background, allowing specialization in hardware, systems integration, or data analytics. The project is inherently interdisciplinary, involving collaboration with experts in marine biology, environmental monitoring, and ocean engineering. You will have access to unique fjord monitoring datasets and the Fjordlab marine research infrastructure, and opportunities to work at the interface of ocean modelling, artificial intelligence, and environmental engineering.

NTNU is a broad-based university with a technical-scientific profile and a strong focus on professional education. The university is located in three cities, with headquarters in Trondheim, and employs 9,000 staff and 43,000 students. The Ocean and Coast strategic research area at NTNU addresses societal challenges related to the open ocean, coastal areas, rivers, lakes, and the water cycle, with particular emphasis on the Arctic. The COD-SPAWN project is funded by this thematic area and aims to support sustainable coastal and fjord ecosystems through radical interdisciplinarity.

The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, with a 3-year employment period and a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund. Additional benefits include free Norwegian language training at a basic level (A2) and access to employee benefits. The successful candidate must gain admission to the PhD programme in Engineering within three months of the employment contract start date and participate in an organized doctoral programme throughout the period of employment.

Applicants must have a relevant Master's degree in engineering (mechatronics, mechanical, robotics, cybernetics, marine technology, or closely related field). Candidates with strong backgrounds in computer science, electrical engineering, or civil/environmental engineering combined with relevant experience are also encouraged to apply. The course of study must correspond to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master's level. Master students can apply, but the degree must be obtained and documented before starting the position and no later than August 2026. A strong academic background is required, with an average grade of B or better according to NTNU's grading scale. Excellent oral and written proficiency in English is mandatory. Admission to the faculty's Doctoral Programme is required.

To apply, submit your application and all required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline of 31 May 2026. Required documents include transcripts, diplomas, CV, master's thesis, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and contact information for three referees. All documents must be in English. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. For questions about the position, contact Professor Razak Seidu or Associate Professor Øystein Bjelland. For recruitment process inquiries, contact HR and PhD Coordinator Lara Bromann.

NTNU values diversity and aims to be an employer that reflects the diversity in society. The university encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, functional ability, or cultural background. Ålesund, the location of the position, offers a vibrant cultural life, modern facilities, and a dynamic business environment, making it an ideal place for both career and family life.