Personal profile
Personal Statement
I'm a dedicated researcher in maritime engineering and energy systems with extensive experience in research, academia, and industry. I hold a European PhD in Marine Sciences and Technologies from University of Genoa, Italy. My research expertise includes clean advanced marine energy systems, fuel cells, carbon capture systems, zero-emission technologies, hydrogen/e-fuels, energy efficiency improvement, decarbonization solutions, alternative fuels, waste heat recovery technologies, and renewable energy sources for ports. I have authored +25 peer-reviewed publications and received prestigious awards such as the TRAVISIONS Award and Ian Telfer Prize (RINA) for contributions to innovation in maritime decarbonization and energy efficiency. My research experience includes participation in several EU-funded projects focusing on sustainable vessel technologies and ship decarbonization, as well as collaboration with international teams to advance maritime innovation and research excellence. In addition to my research background, I have teaching experience as an Assistant Lecturer for Marine Engineering courses.
Research Interests
My research interests focus on accelerating the climate neutrality of waterborne transport through the development and integration of clean and zero-carbon energy systems and innovative technologies. This includes advanced marine propulsion technologies such as fuel cells (PEMFC and SOFC), hybrid systems, as well as the utilization of alternative and renewable fuels like hydrogen, ammonia, LNG, and methanol. Also, it include the development of innovative digital twin models for power systems and carbon capture technologies. I have extensive experience in integrating system simulations, predictive energy models, and multi-criteria decision analysis. I am particularly interested in ship retrofitting strategies that improve energy efficiency and enable carbon capture, as well as infrastructure readiness for clean fuel deployment in ports. My work also involves waste heat recovery technologies, life cycle analysis, and the energy transition of maritime hubs. I aim to bridge research and industry by contributing to UK funded projects, EU-funded projects and industrial projects.
Industrial Relevance
My professional and research experience is closely aligned with the practical demands of the energy and offshore engineering industries. As an Offshore Maintenance Engineer at the Arab Petroleum Pipeline Company (SUMED), I supervised critical inspection and maintenance activities for offshore terminals, including both surface and underwater systems. I played a key role in ensuring the integrity and operational efficiency of Single Point Mooring (SPM) systems, which are essential to the safe and continuous transfer of petroleum.
In addition to fieldwork, I have engaged in industry-driven research initiatives. Notably, I contributed to a research funding from SAIPEM, a leading global contractor in the energy sector, to develop an integrated power unit for their AFT (Anti Flooding Tool) Power Unit. This project demonstrated my ability to translate complex technical challenges into functional engineering solutions with direct industrial applicability.
Together, these experiences reflect a strong track record of applying engineering knowledge to solve real-world problems in the offshore and energy sectors, contributing to improved system performance, safety, and innovation.
Education/Academic qualification
Doctor of Philosophy, Marine sciences and technologies (Curriculum: Fluid Machines and Energy systems for Maritime applications), University of Genoa
1 Jan 2022 → 31 Dec 2024
Award Date: 22 May 2025
Master of Science, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering , Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University
20 Sept 2017 → 2 Jun 2020
Award Date: 15 Jul 2020
Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering , Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering department, Faculty of Engineering, Alexandria University
20 Sept 2012 → 15 Jun 2017
Award Date: 15 Jun 2017
Keywords
- Fuel cells
- Energy systems
- Alternative fuels
- Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
- Digital Twins
- Hydrogen fuelled ships
- Decarbonisation
- Power System Analysis and Operation
- Energy efficiency optimization
- Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA)
Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):
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SDG 4 Quality Education
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SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation
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SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
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SDG 9 Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
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SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
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Collaborations and top research areas from the last five years
Projects
- 2 Active
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A Digital Twin and Multi-Criteria Optimization Platform for Design and Operation of Ship Power and Propulsion Systems
Elkafas, A. G. H. (Principal Investigator) & Lazakis, I. (Co-investigator)
1/05/26 → 31/10/26
Project: Research
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Retrofitting towards climate neutrality
Lazakis, I. (Principal Investigator), Elkafas, A. G. H. (Researcher) & Ahmed, Y. (Researcher)
1/02/23 → 31/01/27
Project: Research
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Dynamic performance and control analysis of a turbocharged solid oxide fuel cell for standalone port use and hybrid integration in marine propulsion
Elkafas, A. G., Mantelli, L., Barberis, S. & Rivarolo, M., Jul 2026, In: Applied Thermal Engineering. 300, Part 2, 16 p., 131352.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Open AccessFile1 Downloads (Pure) -
Performance of SOFC and PEMFC auxiliary power systems under alternative fuel pathways for bulk carriers
Tadros, M., Elkafas, A. G., Boulougouris, E. & Lazakis, I., 9 Apr 2026, In: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering. 14, 8, 35 p., 702.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review
Open AccessFile3 Downloads (Pure)
Activities
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University of Strathclyde SNAME WES student section 4th Year student project presentations 2026
Elkafas, A. G. H. (Participant)
15 May 2026Activity: Presenting or Organising an Event › Conference, workshop, seminar or course
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Maritime Decarbonization - Carbon capture, hydrogen and fuel cell applications onboard ships
Elkafas, A. G. H. (Speaker)
21 Apr 2026Activity: Talk or Presentation › Invited talk