Michael Vahs

Prof. Capt. Michael Vahs is a Professor in the Shipping and Maritime Sciences Department at Emden/Leer University of Applied Sciences, where he serves as Scientific Co-leader of the Fraunhofer Sustainable Maritime Mobility working group alongside Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jann Strybny. His work focuses on Technical Ship Management with specialization in zero-emission technology for ship propulsion and auxiliary operations, sailing technology for cargo and passenger ships, and automation for sailing systems.

Prof. Vahs's research interests center on sustainable maritime mobility, with particular expertise in wind propulsion systems, Flettner rotors, and zero-emission technologies for commercial shipping. His work integrates maritime hydrodynamics and aerodynamics with automation and systems engineering to develop hybrid model concepts that combine powerful modeling and simulation with measurement technology. He has extensive experience in the application of crossover and upscaling effects between sail technology and conventional wind energy systems.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on wind-assisted ship propulsion, with particular attention to Flettner rotor technology, ship maneuverability with wind propulsion systems, and the integration of intelligent control systems. His research spans both theoretical modeling and practical sea trials, demonstrating a strong commitment to translating research into real-world applications for sustainable shipping.

Prof. Vahs leads multiple significant R&D projects including the RASANT project (2023-2026) on Zero Emission Hybrid Sail Cargo Ships, the FlettnerFLEET project (2023-2026), and the Transitioning to Low Carbon Sea Transport project (2017-2024) with the Republic of the Marshall Islands. His work has been supported by various funding bodies including BMU International Climate Initiative, EU Interreg programs, and BMWI WIPANO.

He is actively involved with the Maritime Technical Center in Leer, which forms the heart of the Fraunhofer Sustainable Maritime Mobility working group. This facility, combined with the unique testing infrastructure at other IWES locations, provides comprehensive validation options for full-scale applications of sustainable maritime technologies.