Paul Townsend

Capt Paul Townsend is a Lecturer in Navigation and Maritime Science at the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, part of the University of Plymouth's Faculty of Science and Engineering. He holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Maritime Business Studies and has over 15 years of maritime experience as a Deck Officer on vessels including tankers, bulk carriers, and container ships. His shore-based roles include marine insurance surveying, command in the UK passenger ferry sector, and a 15-year tenure with the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency. He later worked as a Ship Management Consultant and Education & Training Practitioner.

• Education: B.Sc. (Hons) in Maritime Business Studies

His research and professional interests span maritime safety, navigation systems, ship management, and maritime education. His work contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in sustainable maritime practices and responsible consumption of marine resources.