Scott MacKinnon

Scott MacKinnon is a Full Professor in Maritime Studies within the Mechanics and Maritime Sciences department at Chalmers University of Technology. His extensive research portfolio focuses on maritime safety, human factors in navigation, and the impact of digitalization on maritime operations. With numerous publications spanning from 2015 to 2025, he has established himself as a leading academic in maritime human factors research.

MacKinnon's research interests span maritime safety systems, human factors in navigation, autonomous shipping technologies, and sociomaterial perspectives on technology implementation. His work consistently examines how digitalization and automation impact crew performance, safety management, and regulatory frameworks. He investigates practical applications of decision support systems while maintaining focus on human-centered design principles in maritime contexts.

His recent publications reveal a clear progression toward examining neurophysiological aspects of operator performance, autonomous shipping challenges, and AI integration in navigation systems. The research demonstrates increasing sophistication in methodology, moving from traditional observational studies to incorporating advanced data analytics and physiological measurements in bridge simulators.

MacKinnon has secured significant research funding through multiple European Commission projects including AUTOBarge, SAFEMODE, and EfficienSea 2, as well as collaborations with Swedish maritime authorities. His grant portfolio demonstrates strong industry relevance and international collaboration.

He maintains active collaborations with researchers across Europe, particularly with Monica Lundh and Reto Weber at Chalmers, and participates in interdisciplinary teams examining the human dimensions of maritime technological change. His research approach consistently integrates theoretical frameworks with practical maritime applications.