Biography
Dr Shahriar Mazhari is a Master Mariner and senior lecturer in Solent's Warsash Maritime School. His expertise includes simulator-based maritime education and training, with extensive experience in designing and leading advanced simulation courses. He is the course leader for NAEST (Operational Level – Bridge Simulator) and the designer and developer of the Bridge Watchkeeping Skills Simulator (BWSS) training programme, which he designed and developed to enhance officer cadets skills and competency in using bridge equipment and resources.
Shahriar’s professional background spans over two decades at sea, progressing from deck cadet to captain on various classes of merchant ships. He has also served over two decades in the maritime education and training sector as well as commercial and chartering manager for a fleet of over 20 gas and chemical tankers, and as training manager for a national fleet of more than 160 ocean-going vessels. His expertise includes STCW compliance, ISM Code implementation, and safety and quality auditing as a Lloyd’s Register lead auditor certificate holder.
Academically, he holds a PhD in Social Sciences (Education and Training) from Cardiff University, an MSc with distinction in Maritime Education and Training from World Maritime University (Sweden), and a BSc in Nautical Science with distinction. His research focuses on bridging the knowing–doing gap in maritime officer training, simulator pedagogy, and competency development.
Further information
- Senior lecturer, Solent University (2018–present): Teaching and leading simulator courses at operational and management levels, including NAEST (O) and BWSS programmes. Responsible for course design, assessment, and annual course reviews.
- Visiting lecturer, Chabahar Maritime and Marine University (2009–2012): Delivered safety-related training for officer cadets.
- Visiting lecturer, IRISL Training Institute (1996–2004): Conducted STCW-aligned safety training for certificates of competency across all ranks.
- Additional experience in developing structured briefing/debriefing processes, mentoring new lecturers, and applying e-tutor systems to simulator exercises.
