Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Safe Maritime Autonomy

The Centre for Marine Sustainability is inviting applications for a postdoctoral research fellowship to investigate assurance of situational awareness in maritime autonomy, focusing on both AI systems and human-AI interaction(s). The successful candidate will develop methods to assess and ensure that autonomous systems maintain accurate awareness of their environment and that operators receive appropriate information to make safe, informed decisions. This research will contribute to the safe integration of autonomy and alternative fuel technologies within the maritime sector as part of the UK’s decarbonisation strategy.

The Centre for Marine Sustainability is a leader in creating insight, knowledge, and innovation for safe and sustainable seas. Part of Southampton Solent University, the Centre is a multidisciplinary group with expertise in maritime decarbonisation, hydrodynamics, safety, education, autonomy, and more. The Centre is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship to investigate safety and assurance in maritime autonomy, particularly focusing on human-AI interactions. This research will explore how autonomous systems maintain accurate awareness of their environment and how operators receive the right information to make safe, informed decisions.

The role is funded by EPSRC as part of the UK Flagship Clean Maritime Research Hub, a consortium of 13 leading UK universities and wide range of industry and other partners. The Hub conducts innovative research in sustainable marine fuels and their safe use, low-carbon power and propulsion systems for shipping, decarbonised port operations and infrastructure, and improved maritime operations and vessel efficiency.

About you

You should have a PhD in Human Factors, Systems Engineering, Autonomous Systems, AI Safety, or a related discipline. A strong understanding of autonomous systems, safety assurance, or human-system interaction is essential. Experience with simulation environments, AI transparency, or human factors in safety-critical systems is highly desirable.

You will be able to demonstrate:

• Expertise conducive to conducting high-quality research and publishing for international journals/conferences
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent communication skills and a strong proficiency in written and spoken English

Why join us?

• Be part of a nationally significant research hub shaping the future of the maritime industry
• Work within the Centre for Marine Sustainability at Solent University, collaborating with leading academics and industry partners
• Contribute to research that directly impacts safety, sustainability, and innovation in the maritime sector

This post is offered on a fixed-term basis for 12 months.

For informal discussions about the role, please contact Dr Laurie Wright, Associate Professor & Centre Director at laurie.wright@solent.ac.uk

The post holder will be eligible to join the Solent Pension Plan.

Closing date: 4 January 2026.

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