Two Worlds, One Compass: From Commanding Ships to Shaping the Future of Maritime Autonomy

Join Southampton Solent University for the inaugural lecture of Professor Zakirul Bhuiyan, Professor of Maritime Simulation and Autonomy.This special event celebrates Professor Bhuiyan's professorial appointment and recognises his outstanding contributions to maritime education, autonomous shipping research, simulation-based learning, and industry innovation.Drawing upon a unique career that spans ship command, academic leadership, and internationally recognised research, Professor Bhuiyan will explore how traditional seafaring expertise is shaping the future of autonomous maritime operations. The lecture will provide insights into the evolution of navigation, emerging autonomous technologies, human-centred design, and the future skills required for the next generation of maritime professionals.

Programme

5:00 pm - 5:40 pm: Registration, refreshments and networking

5:40 pm - 6:00 pm: Welcome addresses

6:00 pm - 6:45 pm: Inaugural lecture by Professor Zakirul Bhuiyan

6:45 pm - 7:30 pm: Networking

Attendance is free, but registration is required.

We look forward to welcoming colleagues, industry partners, alumni, students, researchers and friends to this special occasion celebrating excellence in maritime innovation and research.

Short Biography

Professor Captain Zakirul Bhuiyan

Professor of Maritime Simulation and Autonomy

Founding Director, Warsash Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Research Centre

Deputy Dean (Research and Knowledge Exchange),Head of Maritime SimulationSchool of Technology and Maritime Industries

Southampton Solent University

Professor Captain Zakirul Bhuiyan is an internationally recognised maritime scholar, Master Mariner, researcher and leader in maritime simulation and autonomous shipping. With more than 35 years of experience, including 17 years at sea and command of large ocean-going vessels, he brings a unique combination of operational expertise, academic leadership and technological innovation to Southampton Solent University.As Professor of Maritime Simulation and Autonomy and Founding Director of the Warsash Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Research Centre, he has played a leading role in advancing research, innovation and industry collaboration in emerging maritime technologies. His roles as Deputy Dean for Research and Knowledge Exchange and Head of Maritime Simulation reflect his significant contribution to the University's academic and research development.Professor Bhuiyan's research focuses on autonomous navigation, advanced simulation, intelligent maritime systems, maritime safety, digitalisation and human-autonomy interaction. He has led and contributed to major UK and European projects, including SEAGUARD, STM, MAXCMAS, MariEMS, IGNITE, VR@Sea and Wightlink FastCat, helping to shape the future of intelligent and sustainable shipping.A Senior Fellow of Advance HE and Fellow of both The Nautical Institute and the Royal Institute of Navigation, he is widely respected across the maritime and academic sectors. Through his research, publications, keynote addresses and contributions to international initiatives, including those linked to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), he continues to influence the global conversation on maritime autonomy, safety and sustainability.Professor Bhuiyan embodies a rare bridge between maritime practice and academic excellence. His experience enriches teaching, strengthens research and inspires future generations of maritime professionals. His inaugural lecture, Two Worlds, One Compass, reflects a career dedicated to navigating between the traditions of seafaring and the innovations shaping the future of maritime transport.

Description supplied by the event organiser.