PhD Student Position in Marine Cyber Security

Supervisor:

• Adjunct ProfessorMarkus Vesa Sihvonen, Estonian Maritime Academy: Estonian Maritime Academy:Maritime Cyber Security

Duration: 4 years (full-time)

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student(s) to conduct cutting-edge research in marine cyber security, focusing on the protection of critical maritime operations. The research addresses emerging cyber and hybrid threats targeting seaports, vessels, and maritime critical infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on AI-driven security, digital twins, and real-time situational awareness.

The position is part of a multidisciplinary research effort combining cyber security, maritime systems, artificial intelligence, and critical infrastructure protection.

Research Topics

The PhD research will focus on one or more of the following areas:

• Detecting, predicting, and preventing hybrid and cyber threats affecting critical maritime operations in seaports and onboard vessels
• Designing and developing a prototype AI-based Maritime Security Operations Centre (SOC)
• Building a Digital Twin model of a critical maritime operation or system
• Collecting and curating operational and security-related data for AI-based threat analysis
• Training AI and machine learning models for anomaly and threat detection
• Developing methods to provide real-time situational awareness for maritime critical operations

Candidate Profile

We are looking for candidates with:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Cyber Security, Computer Science, Information Technology, Maritime Technology, Systems Engineering, or a related field
• Strong interest in cyber security, critical infrastructure protection, and maritime systems
• Experience or interest in AI/ML, data analytics, digital twins, or cyber-physical systems
• Good programming skills (e.g., Python, C++, or similar)
• Ability to work independently and as part of an international research team
• Strong written and spoken English skills

What We Offer

• A fully funded 4-year PhD position
• Opportunity to work on real-world maritime cyber security challenges
• Access to industrial and academic research networks
• Support for international conferences, publications, and collaborations
• A stimulating and interdisciplinary research environment

How to Apply

The application should include:

• A motivation letter describing your research interests
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic transcripts and degrees (BSc and MSc)
• Any other professional certification related to research position
• Copy of Passport or ID document
• Contact information for references

Application deadline: 28nd of February 2026. Applications will be evaluated continuously, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews as the selection process progresses.

Starting date: 1st of April 2026 / negotiable

Top candidates who enter the second round of recruitment will be notified and invited for interviews.

Send your application to: Prof. Markus Vesa Sihvonen[emailprotected]