Markus and Alberto explores the future of ship design
While working on the NuProShip II reasearch project, Alberto and Markus had the chance to explore how nuclear power can contribute to a more sustainable maritime industry. The initiative investigates how advanced technologies may be integrated into future offshore vessels. As a trainee and an intern, they found themselves contributing directly to real innovation.
03. February 2026
Exploring nuclear power at sea
For VARD, the project involved developing a concept for a nuclear‑powered offshore construction vessel. Using an existing VARD design as a reference, the team examined how a reactor, its safety systems, and the energy conversion system could be realistically and safely incorporated on board.
Alberto and Markus took part in the project from the early stages, helping gather technical data, evaluate system requirements, and assess what such integration would mean for the vessel’s overall design.
Alberto: Intern from the University of Genoa
As an intern from the University of Genoa, Alberto spent three months in VARD’s Research & Innovation (R&I) department. His focus was understanding the nuclear system and power conversion requirements, and later contributed to system integration studies and regulatory assessments.
Through this work, he gained a strong appreciation for the technological maturity of nuclear marine propulsion. He noted that while the technology is feasible, regulatory frameworks remain the largest challenge.
Beyond the technical learning, Alberto highlights how rewarding it was to work with colleagues from different countries and disciplines.
“Collaboration and planning are absolutely essential when working on complex objectives. It was very valuable to gain insight into how the R&I department at VARD operates. I would like to thank VARD Design for giving me the opportunity to take part of this future-oriented project.”
Alberto Garau
Markus: Gaining new insight as a Maritime Trainee
As a Maritime Trainee at VARD, Markus rotates through different departments within shipbuilding and ship design. Currently placed in the Hydro department, he joined the NuProShip II project to assess how nuclear systems could be physically integrated into an offshore construction vessel.
His work involved evaluating system placement, understanding how the nuclear components would interact with existing ship systems, and analyzing the overall feasibility of such an integration from a design perspective.
The experience also strengthened his appreciation for interdisciplinary teamwork, which he sees as essential when shaping innovative vessel concepts.
“It was fascinating to see how a technology as complex as nuclear power can be adapted into a functional vessel design. Understanding the constraints and design requirements was both challenging and rewarding.”
Markus Agersborg
Highly valued contribution to the project
Henrik Burvang, Head of the Research and Innovation department at VARD, emphasizes the strong contribution Markus and Alberto have made to the NuProShip II project.
Over the past months, they supported the development of the newly released nuclear vessel concept through thorough research, validation work, and system integration efforts. Their ability to collaborate closely with external industry and research partners, as well as internal stakeholders across VARD, has been an important part of the project’s progress.
“Their results have impressed many, and I would like to extend our sincere gratitude for their contribution. I look forward to seeing how this work continues to shape our next steps.”
Henrik Burvang