AI enabled Port solutions

About the research project

Smart, sustainable, and resilient ports have become a priority in the port industry nowadays. Considering the current turmoil in global trade and supply chain from every aspect of economic, social, environmental, and climatic challenges, a smart, sustainable, and resilient port management model could make real differences. While prevailing smart ports incorporate various aspects of sustainability, green operations, and port security and surveillance, the growing application of artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to further enhance their capacity and capabilities.

This project will explore the various benefits and challenges of adopting AI, aiming to promote the development of smart, sustainable, and resilient ports from a holistic perspective. Moreover, this project will examine ports' readiness to adopt AI by assessing the trade-offs between potential benefits and challenges. It will investigate the various factors influencing the ports' readiness at the same time. Finally, using Australian ports as a case study, a framework will be proposed to guide ports in applying AI to their daily operations, enabling them to become smart, sustainable, and resilient ports.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor Khandaker Rasel Hasan

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 funded by University of Tasmania of $34,315 per annum 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)

A tuition fee offset may be offered to eligible international applicants following competitive assessment 

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 for undertaking a research degree, please visit our Scholarships and fees on research degrees page.

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.

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:

• Evidence of high level written and communication skills expected for PhD level study

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Knowledge and experience in maritime transport, port operation and maritime logistics
• Understanding on operation research, econometric models and application of AI tools could add additional benefit

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor Khandaker Rasel Hasan to discuss your suitability and the project's requirements; and
3. 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.
4. Apply prior to 1 October 2026.

Full details of the application process can be found under the ' How to apply ' section of the Research Degrees website.

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.

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