The Decentralised Low-bandwidth Marine Messaging project in the Department of Computer and Information Sciences aims

to develop free and open-source hardware, software and protocols for exchanging datagrams between small sail and motor vessels. The kinds of messages include position, weather, navigational hazards for both human and machine processing as well as general short text messages for human consumption. The system will be low-power, enabling it to be used for extended periods without unduly depleting the vessel’s battery. The low-level radio protocol will be based on LoRa. Messages are exchanged cooperatively between participating vessels with no central coordination, and limited to the relevant geographical and temporal scope.

A Knowledge Exchange Associate (KEA) is a researcher whose primary audience is out with the academy. Rather than being primarily focused on work in support of research publications, a KEA focuses on getting the new knowledge that they generate out into the world. As a KEA, as part of a wider research group, you will develop the system described above, publish software and designs in the usual way of free and open source software, conduct field tests of the system, as well as objectives and proposals for further development. All of this with guidance from senior colleagues as required. You will conduct individual and/or collaborative knowledge exchange activities, including determining appropriate methods and contributing to the development of new knowledge exchange methods, continually reflecting on practice/methodology.

To be considered for this role, you will have substantial experience in embedded hardware and software design,

radiofrequency engineering, a track record of contributions to free and open source projects, and experience operating cruising yachts and other small recreational vessels. A good honours degree and PhD / higher degree or equivalent experience in a discipline appropriate to hardware/software engineering is required. Relevant qualifications from the MCA, RYA or other recognised authority, or demonstrable equivalent experience in the practice of operating small vessels is required. You will have sufficient breadth and depth of knowledge in the relevant fields to contribute to knowledge exchange programmes and to develop knowledge exchange activities. You will have the ability to conduct individual knowledge exchange projects, work directly and independently with clients and user communities, and to prepare new knowledge exchange proposals.

Informal enquiries about the post can be directed to William Waites, Chancellor’s Fellow (William.waites@strath.ac.uk.).

Formal interviews for this post will be held in September 2023.

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