Tor Onshus

Tor Onshus is a Professor at the Department of Engineering Cybernetics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) since 1987. He holds a MSc and PhD in Electrical Engineering from NTNU. His professional roles include serving as Dean and Head of Department of Engineering Cybernetics (1989–1996), and Scientific Advisor at SINTEF.

Education:

• MSc in Engineering Cybernetics, NTNU
• PhD in Electrical Engineering, NTNU

Research Interests: Focus on instrumentation, process control, safety systems, and industrial automation. Specializes in IEC standards (61508/11), HIPPS systems, fault tolerance, and safety of machinery in oil/gas production. His work integrates theoretical models with practical industrial applications.

Professional Activities:

• Member of Scientific Board for Norwegian National Metrology Laboratory (1997–2003)
• Chairman of Norsk forening for automatisering (1995–2004)
• Advisory roles in PDS-Forum, DeLab, and SINTEF

Awards:

• 2005 Honorary membership in Norsk forening for automatisering
• 2002 IFEA's highest distinction

Grants & Projects: Extensive industrial collaboration through consulting and accident investigations (e.g., Åsta train accident, Njord A drilling accidents). Advised governmental bodies like NPD on Y2K preparations and safety guidelines (OLF-070).

Labs/Teams: Leads research on HIPPS systems validation for offshore installations (Åsgård, Troll, Kårstø) and subsea safety technologies.