Degree type
PhD
Closing date
1 February 2025
Campus
Launceston
Citizenship requirement
Domestic / International
About the research project
Autonomous vessels and the increasing automation of processes on non-autonomous vessels present complex challenges in achieving effective human-automation interaction, operational safety, and robust risk management strategies. As the maritime industry advances towards higher levels of autonomy, seamless integration of human operators with autonomous systems will be paramount. In such scenarios, human operators will predominantly assume supervisory roles, overseeing complex data-driven systems while remaining prepared to take immediate control during unforeseen real-time events.
This research project seeks to investigate the evolving role of human operators in highly automated maritime environments. It aims to monitor and measure cognitive load, emotional states, fatigue, and workload to enable autonomous systems to dynamically adapt to human behavior and stress levels. This adaptability will ensure safety and maintain operational efficiency in unpredictable situations where human stress and workload are elevated.
Through extensive research, simulations, and methodologies such as cognitive load assessment and subjective reporting (e.g., post-simulation surveys), the project will identify critical factors influencing human interaction with autonomous systems. The Australian Maritime College's (AMC) ship simulator facility will be utilised to create realistic sea-based scenarios, enabling an in-depth examination of the cognitive demands placed on seafarer students.
The study will adopt cognitive load theory, which posits that excessive cognitive load can impair learning, performance, and information retention, as its theoretical framework. Cognitive load, including intrinsic and extraneous elements, will be assessed through student feedback and comparative analysis of different simulation scenarios. Post-simulation surveys will provide insights into cognitive load dynamics, guiding instructional design to align more effectively with learners' cognitive capacities.
By identifying strategies to mitigate cognitive load and stress experienced by operators, this research aims to enhance maritime safety through the development of emotionally intelligent autonomous systems. These systems will dynamically adapt to the human operator's state, fostering a safer and more efficient integration of automation in maritime operations.
Primary Supervisor
Funding
Applicants will be considered for a Research Training Program (RTP) scholarship or Tasmania Graduate Research Scholarship (TGRS) which, if successful, provides:
- a living allowance stipend of $33,511 per annum (2025 rate, indexed annually) for 3.5 years
- a relocation allowance of up to $2,000
- a tuition fees offset covering the cost of tuition fees for up to four years (domestic applicants only)
If successful, international applicants will receive a University of Tasmania Fees Offset for up to four years.
As part of the application process you may indicate if you do not wish to be considered for scholarship funding.
Other funding opportunities and fees
For further information regarding other scholarships on offer, and the various fees of undertaking a research degree, please visit Scholarships and fees.
Eligibility
Applicants should review the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
Ensure your eligibility for the scholarship round by referring to our Key Dates.
Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:
- The applicant should be based on-campus in Launceston, Tasmania as a full-time student. If based overseas, they should locate to Tasmania, Australia.
- The applicant should read the essential and desirable criteria for selection before applying for this project. Applicants who do not meet the essential criteria will not be considered.
- The applicants will be required to undertake face-to-face (or over online video-based platforms) meetings with the supervisory team and the Graduate Research Coordinator to discuss their suitability to undertake this project.
Selection Criteria
The project is competitively assessed and awarded. Selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the project as determined by the College.
Additional essential selection criteria specific to this project:
- Master's degree (in a relevant field) with a thesis component
- Academic publications in a peer-reviewed journal or conference
- Evidence of academic writing
- Evidence of command over the English language
- Letter of support from at least two referees supporting the applicant's claim of research-based knowledge
Additional desirable criteria specific to this project:
- Evidence of research projects undertaken
- Evidence of research skills (e.g., data collection, data analysis, use of data software or tools)
- Experience or knowledge of maritime-based industries
Application process
- Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
- Contact Dr Samrat Ghosh to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
- In your application:
- Copy and paste the title of the project from this advertisement into your application. If you don’t correctly do this your application may be rejected.
- Submit a signed supervisory support form, a CV including contact details of 2 referees and your project research proposal.
- Apply prior to 1 February 2025.
Full details of the application process can be found under the 'How to apply' section at Research degrees.
Following the closing date applications will be assessed within the College. Applicants should expect to receive notification of the outcome by email by the advertised outcome date.
Apply now Explore other projects
Why the University of Tasmania?
Worldwide reputation for research excellence
Quality supervision and support
