PhD Fellow in Data Analytics and Optimization for Routing and Control of Wind-Assisted Ships OsloMet – Oslo Metropolitan University in Norway

The Department of Mechanical, Electrical and Chemical Engineering (MEK) at Oslo Metropolitan University (OsloMet) is offering a fully funded PhD Fellowship in Data Analytics and Optimization for Routing and Control of Wind-Assisted Ships. This position is part of the WINTEGRATE (WIND+INTEGRATE) project, a major collaborative research initiative funded under the Green Platform programme, which aims to accelerate the green transition in Norwegian industry by developing sustainable technologies with significant climate and environmental impact.

The PhD candidate will join OsloMet OceanLab and contribute to research on data-driven methods for sustainable maritime operations. The project focuses on voyage optimization, operational decision support, and control strategies for ships equipped with wind-assisted propulsion systems. Using operational data from vessels participating in WINTEGRATE, the candidate will develop computational methods to support energy-efficient ship operation and decarbonization of maritime transport, supporting the broader green transition of the sector.

Research activities will include processing and analyzing large volumes of operational data from onboard systems, including propulsion, navigation, environmental sensors, and wind propulsion devices. The work will emphasize data-driven modelling, routing optimization, and control strategies for wind-assisted vessels. Advanced approaches such as model predictive control, optimization-based decision frameworks, and data-driven performance modelling may be explored. The overall goal is to enable efficient and intelligent operation of wind-assisted ships, contributing to reduced fuel consumption and emissions in maritime transport.

As a PhD Fellow at OsloMet, you will have opportunities for academic development, participation in research groups, and access to funding for extended research stays abroad. The position is based in Oslo, Norway, at the university's central campus.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master's degree (normally 120 ECTS) in mechanical engineering, marine engineering, cybernetics, control engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, marine technology, or equivalent related disciplines. Minimum average grade B on master's degree subjects and thesis, minimum average grade C on bachelor's degree subjects. Written and oral proficiency in English is required. Admission to the PhD programme in Engineering Science at OsloMet is a prerequisite. Strong programming skills, solid foundation in mathematics and dynamical systems, and documented background in data analytics, optimization, and control of maritime systems are advantageous. All exams for the master's degree must be completed by 30 June 2026. Foreign education must be pre-approved.

Funding: The position offers a salary in accordance with OsloMet's pay policy for PhD Candidate in code 1017, corresponding to 550,800 NOK per year, with a 2% pension contribution deducted. Funding for extended research stays abroad may be applied for.

Application Process: Apply through OsloMet's electronic recruitment system by the deadline. Upload your application letter, CV, reference letters, certificates/diplomas, transcripts, and any relevant scientific works. Foreign education must be pre-approved and documented. Incomplete applications will not be considered. The application deadline is May 4th, 2026.

For further information, contact Head of Research Biplab K Datta ([email protected]) or Professor Vahid Hassani ([email protected]). Administrative inquiries can be directed to [email protected].

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in maritime decarbonization and sustainable ship operation at one of Norway's leading universities.