PhD Candidate in AI for Ship Traffic Monitoring, NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology), Norway

Summary

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a three‑year PhD position in AI for ship traffic monitoring within the Norwegian Maritime AI Centre. The project focuses on developing machine‑learning models to analyse AIS and related data for anomaly detection, risk analysis and autonomous navigation. The candidate will work in the Department of Engineering Cybernetics, collaborate with industry and governmental partners, and be expected to produce high‑quality research, publications and outreach. Funding comes from the Research Council of Norway and partners, with a gross salary starting around NOK 580,000 per year. The role includes career guidance, mentorship, pension benefits and access to NTNU employee resources.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Engineering Cybernetics (ITK)
Position Type	PhD Candidate
Discipline	Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science
Research Area	AI for Ship Traffic Monitoring
Degree Required	Master's degree
Salary	gross salary normally from NOK 580,000 per annum depending on qualifications and seniority
Funding	Research Council of Norway and partners (Norwegian Maritime AI Centre, 2026-2030)
Contract Duration	3 years
Language	English and Norwegian/Scandinavian
Deadline	2026-11-02
Required Documents	Transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor's and Master's degrees, CV, Copy of Master's thesis, Short letter of motivation, Publications or other relevant research work, Relevant certificates, Names and contact information of at least two referees, Documentation of education taken abroad
Employer Address	Høgskoleringen 1, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The PhD project aims to create AI models that learn ship trajectories and traffic patterns from historical AIS data, weather, navigation charts and other maritime datasets. These models will be used to detect anomalies, predict future movements and support situational awareness, safety, logistics and autonomous navigation. The research will integrate deep learning, real‑time satellite AIS, radar and other sensor inputs, and will be evaluated through collaborations with industry and governmental partners in the Norwegian Maritime AI Centre.

Key Responsibilities

• Complete doctoral education until obtaining a doctorate
• Carry out research of good quality within the framework described above
• Produce academic publications and popular science dissemination
• Participate in Norwegian Maritime AI Centre activities
• Participate in international activities such as conferences and possibly research stays with partners in the centre
• Other career‑promoting work, such as teaching or research infrastructure development, can be agreed if there is mutual interest

Required Skills

• Documented knowledge and experience with machine learning or other AI methods
• Knowledge of maritime situational awareness, ship dynamics and ship surveillance sensors
• Good oral and written presentation skills in a Norwegian/Scandinavian language
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams with researchers, industry and government
• Motivation to work with security, defense and response
• Ability to work independently and in a structured way, set goals and make plans

Who Should Apply

Applicants should hold a five‑year master’s degree in engineering, informatics or a related field, with strong grades (average B or better). They must demonstrate knowledge of machine learning or AI, and preferably experience with maritime situational awareness, ship dynamics or sensor systems. Good presentation skills in English and a Norwegian/Scandinavian language, the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams, and motivation for security‑related research are essential.

Benefits

• An exciting job with an important societal mission
• Strong and international professional environment
• Career guidance and follow‑up during the PhD period
• Open and inclusive working environment with committed colleagues
• Working capital to implement the project
• Mentor programme for new employees at NTNU
• Favorable terms as a member of the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund (SPK)
• Access to NTNU employee benefits
• Gross salary normally from NOK 580,000 per annum

About the Employer

NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) hosts the Department of Engineering Cybernetics (ITK) and the newly established Norwegian Maritime AI Centre, a collaborative initiative funded by the Research Council of Norway and industry partners to accelerate AI adoption in maritime value chains.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 2 November 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Oslo).

What is the salary for this position?

The gross salary is normally from NOK 580,000 per annum, depending on qualifications and seniority.

Which documents must be submitted with the application?

Transcripts and diplomas for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, CV, copy of Master’s thesis (if available), a short motivation letter, publications or other research work, relevant certificates, and names and contact information of at least two referees.

Is English proficiency required?

Yes, applicants must provide documentation of English language skills (e.g., TOEFL) if their native language is not English or Scandinavian.