Fully Funded Cullen PhD Scholarship at National Maritime College of Ireland

The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI), in partnership with the Marine Institute and the Government of Ireland’s Marine Research Programme, invites applications for the Cullen PhD Scholarship. This fully funded 4-year PhD opportunity will focus on exploring the use of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) in coastal waters and their implications for the future of the maritime industry, particularly from a Maritime Education and Training (MET) perspective.

About the Project

This PhD project aims to assess how MASS will shape the future of Ireland’s maritime industry by examining the technological, operational, safety, and human resource implications. The research will highlight the skills and training required for Ireland to remain competitive in the global maritime landscape.

Key research areas include:

• • Identifying the implications of MASS for Ireland’s maritime industry and policy.
  • Developing methodologies for safe and efficient MASS operations using AI advancements.
  • Evaluating how MASS impacts international seafarer training standards (STCW).
  • Identifying future skills and training needed for Ireland’s workforce.
  • Exploring new job opportunities arising from MASS adoption.
  • Investigating digital transformation opportunities in the maritime industry.

Cullen Scholarship Benefits

The Cullen PhD Scholarship offers a generous funding package:

• Tax-free stipend: €25,000 per annum (4 years).
• Full PhD tuition fees: For both EU and non-EU students.
• Research budget: Up to €3,000 annually for travel, publications, consumables, and equipment.
• Laptop provision: Covered by the Marine Institute.
• Networking & Communication Awards: Additional funding available.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold at least a 2H1 (second-class higher) classification or equivalent in a relevant discipline, OR possess a Master’s degree in a related field.
• Maritime background in operations or engineering.
• Strong analytical, report-writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in peer-reviewed research publication and industry engagement.
• English proficiency (if English is not the first language):
  • IELTS Academic: Overall 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
  • PTE Academic: 51 (minimum 45 in each component)
  • TOEFL iBT: 80 (minimum 18 in each component)
  • Duolingo: Minimum score of 100.

Application Timeline

• Application Deadline: 25th February 2025
• Online Interviews: Early March 2025
• PhD Start Date: No later than 11th May 2025.

Apply: https://blog.nmci.ie/2025/02/cullen-phd-scholarship/.