MSc Thesis Programs: Maritime Robotics, Artificial Intelligence and Robot Autonomy
We supervise MSc theses on maritime robotics, with a strong focus on autonomy and AI. Typical work includes designing algorithms, running simulations, testing on real data, and (when possible) field experiments.
Research areas
Human–robot teaming and shared autonomy Interfaces and control methods that let a human and an autonomous system share decisions during a mission.
Multi-robot collaboration Coordination and task allocation for teams of robots (for example, multiple AUVs working together).
Mission and Path planning for long-duration missions Planning and replanning under constraints such as energy, currents, risk, uncertainty, and limited communication.
Polar robotics Methods and system design for operating in cold, remote environments, including robustness and autonomy constraints.
Quantum sensing and navigation Navigation and sensor fusion topics, including work with magnetometers and (where relevant) quantum or next-generation sensors.
Thesis projects with external partners (selected)
We also offer MSc thesis projects in collaboration with:
- Atlas Elektronik (typically includes ~1 month onsite; travel and living expenses covered)
- Fincantieri WASS
- NOC (National Oceanography Centre)
- CMRE (NATO Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation)
Erasmus opportunities Students can also apply for Erasmus exchanges. Current partners include:
Leibniz Universität Hannover
University of Zagreb
University of Girona
Heriot-Watt University (from 2027)
…and many more!
How to apply For more details and to apply, feel free to contact Prof. Andrea Munafo at andrea.munafo@unipi.it.