World Maritime University PhD Fellowships 2025–26: Advance Maritime Sustainability Research (Deadline: 14 September, 2025)

If you are a passionate researcher aged 18–35 with a keen interest in maritime sustainability, the World Maritime University (WMU) offers a fully funded PhD fellowships in Maritime Affairs for the 2025–26 academic year. This program enables scholars to contribute to global maritime sustainability through interdisciplinary research and innovative solutions. Read on for details.

Fellowship Summary

• Location: Malmö, Sweden

• Host Institution: World Maritime University (WMU)

• Level: PhD in Maritime Affairs

• Target Group: Researchers aged 18–35 with a focus on maritime sustainability

• Fields of Research: Maritime transportation, energy transition, green shipping, maritime policy

• Value & Coverage:

  • Tuition fully covered

  • Monthly stipend for living expenses

  • Travel expenses for research-related activities

  • Duration: 3–4 years

• Application Deadline: 14 September, 2025

• Eligible To: International applicants with a strong background in maritime studies or related fields

 Fellowship Overview

WMU’s PhD program offers the opportunity to carry out research addressing the most pressing maritime challenges. The 2025–26 fellowships, supported by various sponsors, focus on the green transition in maritime transportation, energy efficiency, and sustainable port and shipping operations. Fellows gain access to WMU’s network of maritime professionals and research facilities, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Offered Research Themes

Theme 1: Sustainability Management in Port and Shipping Companies through ESG

Problem Statement: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting has become critical for ports and shipping companies. Investors increasingly consider ESG performance alongside financial returns, but the absence of standardized reporting and independent verification creates risks. Academic research in maritime ESG reporting is limited, and integrating ESG with financial instruments, such as the Poseidon Principles, remains a challenge.

Aim & Objectives:

• Develop a unified ESG framework for ports and shipping companies

• Assess ESG implementation needs in maritime sectors

• Review existing ESG practices (e.g., OCIMF TMSA, RightShip, ESI)

• Compare ESG with the Poseidon Principles

• Identify safety, environmental, economic, and social risks

• Highlight best practices and mitigation measures

• Develop materiality matrices and multidisciplinary KPIs

• Conduct field studies and test KPIs in volunteer organizations

• Propose third-party audit schemes and explore ESG-finance links

Theme 2: Green Shipping Corridors (GSCs)

Problem Statement: The transition to clean maritime fuels and zero-emission vessels requires structured frameworks. Green Shipping Corridors (GSCs) help manage energy transition risks, costs, and fuel supply, yet standardized protocols are lacking. Coordinated efforts among governments, industry, and financiers are essential to advance zero-emission shipping technologies.

Aim & Objectives:

• Define criteria for viable GSCs and stakeholder roles

• Explore governance and management frameworks for GSCs

• Assess financial links and incentives for stakeholders

• Develop methodologies for energy demand estimation and fuel optimization

• Evaluate stakeholder performance

• Analyze socio-economic benefits including climate resilience, energy security, employment, and health improvements

Theme 3: Port Energy Hubs and Urban-Port Integration

Problem Statement: Ports are central to energy transition but face challenges in urban integration, governance, and public acceptance. Renewable energy projects must consider social, economic, and environmental impacts to ensure smooth implementation and urban compatibility.

Aim & Objectives:

• Develop roadmaps and transition strategies for port energy hubs

• Explore renewable energy innovations and digital energy optimization

• Assess social, economic, and policy impacts of port decarbonization

• Conduct stakeholder analyses to enhance public acceptance and urban-port integration

 Fellowship Benefits

• Financial Support: Full tuition coverage, monthly stipend, travel expenses

• Academic Development: Access to research facilities, mentorship from maritime experts, participation in international conferences

• Professional Networking: Connect with global maritime professionals, publish research findings, and explore post-doctoral opportunities

 Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 18–35 years

• Academic Background: Master’s degree in maritime studies, environmental science, engineering, or related fields

• Research Focus: Maritime sustainability, green shipping, ESG, energy transition

• Language Proficiency: English (written and spoken)

Application Procedure

1. Prepare Application Materials:

   • WMU Ph.D. Application Form

   • CV

   • Research proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes

   • Academic transcripts and certificates

   • Two Letters of academic reference to be sent directly by referees to the

   • Doctoral Office, email phd@wmu.se

   • Copy of Passport

   • Proof of English proficiency

2. Submit Application:

   • Applications must be submitted online via WMU’s portal

   • Ensure all documents are complete before the deadline

3. Selection Process:

   • Shortlisted candidates invited for interviews

   • Final selection based on academic qualifications, research proposal, and alignment with fellowship objectives

Additional Information

• Download the PDF call for Applications here

• Program Language: English

• Estimated Living Expenses: SEK 12,000/month (≈ USD 1,100)

• Financial Support: Some students funded by companies, governments, or agencies

For more detailed information and to apply, visit the official WMU PhD in Maritime Affairs page.