Building Green Human Capital for Maritime Decarbonization: Training, Skills, Competencies, and Workforce Transformation

About the research project

The global maritime industry is undergoing a significant transformation as it moves towards decarbonization and the adoption of low- and zero-carbon technologies. Alternative marine fuels such as ammonia, methanol, hydrogen, biofuels, and other emerging energy solutions are expected to play an increasingly important role in achieving international emissions reduction targets. Alongside these technological developments, digitalization, automation, and evolving regulatory requirements are changing the knowledge, skills, and competencies required of the maritime workforce. Successful maritime decarbonization will therefore depend not only on technological innovation but also on developing appropriately trained, skilled, and competent maritime professionals. This PhD project will investigate how training, skills, and competency development can contribute to building Green Human Capital (GHC) for maritime decarbonization. Green Human Capital refers to the knowledge, skills, competencies, experience, environmental awareness, and capabilities required by individuals and organisations to support sustainable operations and environmental objectives. Within the maritime sector, the transition to alternative fuels and new technologies will require significant reskilling and upskilling of seafarers, shore-based personnel, maritime managers, educators, and other industry professionals.

The research will identify emerging workforce requirements associated with maritime decarbonization and examine the technical, operational, safety, environmental, digital, and managerial competencies required for future shipping operations. It will assess existing workforce capabilities and maritime education and training practices to identify key skills, competency, and training gaps. Particular attention will be given to the training requirements associated with alternative marine fuels, emerging technologies, new operational practices, and changing regulatory requirements. This project will employ a mixed-methods research approach, incorporating a systematic review of academic and industry literature, analysis of relevant regulatory and competency frameworks, interviews with maritime experts, and a questionnaire survey involving key industry stakeholders. Quantitative and qualitative analyses will be used to identify and prioritise critical future competencies and training needs. Where appropriate, multi-criteria decision-making methods may be applied to establish priorities for workforce development.

The ultimate outcome of the research will be the development and validation of a Green Human Capital Development Framework for Maritime Decarbonization. The framework will provide a systematic approach for identifying future competencies, assessing workforce readiness, addressing training gaps, and supporting continuous professional development. The findings will provide practical guidance for maritime education and training institutions, shipping companies, regulators, policymakers, and other stakeholders in preparing a competent, adaptable, and future-ready workforce capable of supporting the maritime industry's transition towards sustainable and decarbonized shipping.

Primary supervisor

Meet Doctor T M Rabiul Islam

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.

Additional eligibility criteria specific to this project/scholarship:

• Applicants must meet the Higher Degree by Research minimum entry requirements.
• The degree must be undertaken on a full-time basis.

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:

• A Bachelor’s degree with Honours, Master’s degree by Research, or equivalent qualification in maritime studies, marine engineering, maritime education and training, shipping, sustainability, human factors, management, or a related discipline that meets PhD admission requirements.
• Demonstrated research capability, including experience or knowledge in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods, data collection, analysis, and academic writing.
• Strong analytical, critical-thinking, and written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with academic, industry, and regulatory stakeholders.

Additional desirable selection criteria specific to this project:

• Maritime industry experience, particularly as a seafarer, marine engineer, maritime educator/trainer, shipping professional, or in a related maritime role.
• Knowledge or experience in maritime decarbonisation, alternative marine fuels, sustainability, human factors, or maritime workforce development.
• Experience in maritime education and training (MET), competency assessment, curriculum development, simulator-based training, or professional development programs.

Application process

1. Select your project, and check that you meet the eligibility and selection criteria, including citizenship;
2. Contact Doctor T M Rabiul Islam 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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