Professor of Marine Technology and Autonomy

University of Plymouth; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university seeks a Professor of Marine Technology, focusing on interdisciplinary research in marine science, robotics, and AI. The successful candidate will lead innovative projects and forge strategic partnerships, significantly contributing to the field of marine autonomy. This is a full-time position based in Plymouth offering a competitive salary and generous benefits package.

Benefits

35 Days Annual Leave

Generous pension scheme

Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible working

On-site nursery

Qualifications

• Internationally recognized track record of research leadership and innovation.
• Expertise in autonomous systems and marine technologies.
• Experience in fostering knowledge exchange and translational research.

Responsibilities

• Lead interdisciplinary research at the intersection of marine science, AI, and robotics.
• Develop CMAST as a global hub for autonomy in marine technology.
• Forge partnerships with the Ministry of Defence and industry leaders.

Skills

Research leadership

Marine autonomous platforms

Robotics

Environmental monitoring

Cyber-physical systems

Education

PhD or equivalent in relevant field

Job description

The University of Plymouth seeks to appoint a Professor of Marine Technology and Autonomy, to help drive and expand our new cross disciplinary research centre, CMAST, the Centre for Marine Autonomy, Maritime Cyber‑Security and Technology.

About the Role

As Professor, you will:

• Lead interdisciplinary research at the intersection of marine science, robotics, AI, and systems engineering.
• Develop CMAST as a global hub for scalable, secure, and resilient autonomous platforms.
• Advance dual‑use innovation for civilian and defence applications, supporting UK strategic priorities.
• Forge partnerships with the Ministry of Defence, Royal Navy, industry leaders, and international collaborators.
• Enhance teaching and training to equip graduates for careers in the blue economy and high‑tech defence sectors.

About You

You will have:

• An internationally recognised track record of research leadership and innovation.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Autonomous Systems Technology Platform Development – marine autonomous platforms, robotics, command and control.
• Environmental Sensor and Platform Development – ocean observation, climate monitoring, ecosystem health.
• Maritime Technology for Security – cyber‑physical systems, surveillance, naval applications.

• A clear vision for advancing marine autonomy and related technologies.
• Experience in fostering knowledge exchange and translational research.

Candidates with exceptional expertise in non‑marine autonomous systems and a compelling vision for marine applications are also encouraged to apply.

Why Plymouth?

Plymouth is the UK’s National Centre for Marine Autonomy (NCMA) and home to pioneering initiatives such as Smart Sound, NCCA, and the FAST cluster. CMAST will accelerate innovation in marine technology, digital systems, and maritime cyber security, aligning with the UK’s Strategic Defence Review and Net Zero Maritime ambitions.

What We Offer

• A leadership role in shaping the future of marine autonomy.
• Opportunities for substantive research investment and collaboration.
• A vibrant ecosystem of industry, government, and academic partners.
• Competitive salary and benefits.

Join us and help position Plymouth at the forefront of global marine autonomy and maritime technology.

For this role, you will need to be on site 3 days a week. Although we can accommodate working from home for this role, flexibility to be on‑site will be expected due to business needs.

This is a full‑time position working 37 hours per week on a permanent basis. The successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to this research being undertaken.

Interviews are anticipated to take place mid‑January 2026.

Application Process

Please apply online, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the knowledge, qualifications, training, and experience elements of the job description in your supporting statement.

Following the closing date of the vacancy, you will be notified on the outcome of your application in due course.

Our Offer

When joining us, you will receive:

• Generous annual leave: 35* Days Annual Leave plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days
• Generous pension scheme
• Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Development opportunities
• Enhanced family leave
• Flexible working
• Retailer discounts
• On‑site nursery

A relocation package may be available to the successful candidate, conditions apply.

Additional Information

The University of Plymouth is an inclusive community where everyone is welcomed regardless of their background. To find out more about our inclusive community initiatives, such as Athena Swan and the Race Equality Charter.