The MarRI-UK PhD Programme exemplifies the maritime industry’s commitment to advancing fundamental research and fostering collaboration across academia and industry. It stands as a pioneering initiative that bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical application, addressing the most pressing challenges in the maritime sector. All research projects are partially funded by MarRI-UK industry members, co-supervised by industry and academic supervisors, and are aimed to drive impactful research and builds a skilled workforce prepared to lead the maritime industry into a sustainable future.
Key features
- Industry driven: As the topics are selected by industry members, and co-supervised with industry supervisors, the programme guarantees that the research outcomes have immediate relevance and potential for impactful implementation.
- Collaborative supervision: Each PhD project is co-supervised by academic experts and industry professionals, combining theoretical rigor with practical insights. The model fosters strong partnerships between academia and industry, enabling students to benefit from diverse perspectives and mentorship.
Benefits
- Workforce development: The programme aligns with national strategies and strengthens the UK’s global leadership in maritime innovation and competitiveness by fostering skilled talent with industry-ready knowledge, the programme.
- Access to expertise: Industry members gain access to cutting-edge research and academic expertise, allowing them to stay ahead in technology and innovation.
- Real-World Impact: Academic members engage in projects with tangible industry relevance, enhancing the applicability and visibility of their research.
- Career advancement: Students benefit from direct exposure to industry practices, challenges, and insights, making them highly employable and industry-ready as future leaders in maritime innovation.
Current projects
Development of an Artificial Intelligence Model to Assess Nonlinear Multibody Structural Response of Container Stacks
Research Student: Elnaz Zare
Elnaz Zare is a Ph.D. student in Marine Engineering. She has a background in Civil and Structural Engineering, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s degree in Structural Engineering from Iran. She has also authored several papers on self-centering structures, performance-based design, and composite structures, reflecting her passion for innovative and sustainable engineering solutions.
The project is co-supervised between University of Newcastle, University of Southampton, and Lloyd’s Register.
“AI” in Ship Design – Structural Calculation
Research Student: Nay Min Htein
Nay Min Htein, BEng, is a PhD candidate in the Department of Naval Architecture, Ocean, and Marine Engineering (NAOME) at University of Strathclyde since 2024. He obtained a bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering with honors from NAOME department. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he had an opportunity to embark on his PhD studies after receiving the University Research Excellence Award from the University of Strathclyde, which is co-funded by MarRI-UK. His research interests focus on developing AI/Machine learning methods in Ship Design.
The project is co-supervised between University of Strathclyde and BAE Systems.
Another student is to be recruited at University of Exeter
The project is co-supervised between University of Exeter, University of Newcastle and BMT.
Integrated Vessel Health Management (IVHM) for the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS)
Research Student is to be confirmed
The project is co-supervised between University College London and Lloyd’s Register.
Robust functional allocation for effective human-machine operation of autonomous vessels
Research Student is to be confirmed
The project is co-supervised between University of Liverpool and BMT.
Synergising technological innovation and human competence for safe MASS operations
Research Student is to be confirmed
The project is co-supervised between Liverpool John Moores University and BAE Systems.
Waste Heat Minimisation
Research Student is to be confirmed
The project is co-supervised between University of Southampton and BAE Systems.
Dynamic Digital Scheduling for Optimal Outfitting
Research Student is to be confirmed
The project is co-supervised between University of Strathclyde and BAE Systems.
Explore further opportunities?
All MarRI-UK members have exclusive access to explore and benefit from all of these research topics. If you’re a member, feel free to contact our team directly to learn more.
Not a member yet? By joining MarRI-UK, you’ll gain access to our research and the opportunity to support and collaborate with top-tier PhD students, drive innovation, and stay ahead in the maritime industry. Connect with us via the Contact Us page to discover how you can be part of the community.