The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is doubling down on maritime innovation, backed by a substantial five-year grant—the largest in its history. This funding injection will fuel new research projects, bolster existing maritime chairs, and drive interdisciplinary collaboration to tackle some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.
DTU has already made waves with over 50 maritime research projects and two dedicated professorships over the past decade. These chairs have been instrumental in bridging academia and industry, ensuring students are equipped with cutting-edge skills and a deep understanding of maritime operations. The new grant will amplify these efforts, enabling DTU to dive deeper into sustainable technologies, safety enhancements, emissions reduction, and marine biodiversity.
Christine Nellemann, Provost at DTU, underscores the broad scope of the research agenda: “We are very pleased that this grant will enable our researchers to address some of the major challenges facing the maritime sector in the years ahead.” The initiative spans a wide array of critical areas, from developing sustainable maritime technologies to improving stability and safety at sea. This interdisciplinary approach will draw on expertise from various academic corners of DTU, ensuring a holistic tackle on maritime issues.
DTU’s previous research has already made a tangible impact on policy and practice. A notable example is its research on scrubber water discharge from ships. Until recently, ships were allowed to release scrubber water into the sea. However, DTU’s findings on the harmful effects of this practice on marine life have led to a ban on scrubber water discharge in Danish waters starting July 2025. This policy shift underscores the real-world impact of DTU’s research and its role in steering the maritime sector toward greater sustainability.
One of the standout projects funded by the new grant is the development of a digital twin for Denmark’s upcoming research vessel, Dana V. This advanced digital replica will leverage real-time data from sensors on the ship to refine numerical models of ship navigation. These models will cover everything from engine performance and propeller efficiency to ship movements in waves. The goal is to provide data-driven operational recommendations that enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and boost maritime safety.
The digital twin will also serve as a powerful educational tool. Data collected from Dana V’s voyages will be used to train the next generation of engineers, who will work on validating and improving the numerical models. This hands-on approach ensures that students are not just learning theory but are actively contributing to real-world maritime advancements.
The grant from A/S Dampskibsselskabet Orient’s Fond is a game-changer, providing the resources needed to push the boundaries of maritime research. As DTU continues to expand its maritime footprint, its work will undoubtedly shape the future of the sector, driving innovation and sustainability.