Associate Professor University of Genova, Italy
AUTHOR PROFILE
SUMMARY
Prof. Tomaso Gaggero is an Associate Professor at the Department of Naval, Electrical, Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering (DITEN), University of Genova, Italy. An internationally recognized expert in naval architecture and underwater acoustics, his work focuses on underwater noise generated by ships and its ecological impacts. He plays a leading role in European research projects and contributes extensively to international regulatory and scientific bodies on maritime noise emissions.
EDUCATION
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Ph.D. in Naval Architecture (2013) – University of Genova, Thesis: Noise and vibrations on board ships
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M.Sc. in Naval Architecture (2009) – University of Genova, 110/110 cum laude
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B.Sc. in Naval Architecture (2006) – University of Genova, 106/110
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Prof. Gaggero began his academic career as a contract researcher at the University of Genova in 2013 and progressed to Assistant Professor (RTDA in 2014, RTDB in 2016), before becoming Associate Professor in 2019. He earned the Italian National Scientific Qualification for Full Professor in 2022. Internationally, he served as a visiting researcher in Spain and has been actively involved in EU-funded projects such as AQUO, SONIC, ROBINS, MON ACUMEN, SICOMAR plus, and LIFE-Piaquo. He represents Italy at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) on underwater radiated noise and serves on technical committees of the ISSC.
RESEARCH INTEREST
His current research focuses on:
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Experimental and numerical characterization of underwater radiated noise (URN) from ships
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Modeling noise source levels and propagation in the marine environment
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Assessing ecological impacts of maritime noise on marine life
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Developing mitigation strategies through ship design and real-time monitoring
AWARD AND HONOR
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2022 – Achieved National Scientific Qualification for Full Professorship in Naval and Aerospace Engineering (09/A1)
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Guest Editor – Special Issue of IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering on Waterborne Noise Emissions from Shipping
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Associate Editor – Frontiers in Marine Science – Ocean Engineering and Blue Economy
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Scientific Advisor – Multiple EU and industrial research projects including CETENA, LEONARDO, and CMRE collaborations
RESEARCH SKILL
Dr. Tomaso Gaggero possesses advanced research skills in the fields of naval architecture, underwater acoustics, and shipborne noise emissions. His expertise lies particularly in the experimental and numerical characterization of ships as sources of underwater radiated noise and its environmental impacts. He has developed and validated innovative models for ship noise source levels and sound propagation in marine environments, contributing to sustainable maritime practices. With a strong command of measurement techniques using sonobuoys, numerical simulations, and signal processing, Dr. Gaggero has led and collaborated on numerous national and international research projects funded by the EU and private organizations. His capacity to integrate multidisciplinary approaches is evident from his roles in major EU-funded programs such as SONIC, AQUO, LIFE-Piaquo, and ROBINS. Furthermore, he is actively engaged in shaping international standards on underwater noise as a technical advisor and committee member within the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and ISSC. His editorial work with top-tier journals and ongoing collaborations with research institutions and industry partners highlight his ability to bridge theoretical research with practical engineering solutions
1. Propeller Design by Optimisation for Underwater Radiated Noise Reduction: A Full Scale Application
Authors: S. Gaggero, T. Gaggero, G. Tani, D. Villa, E. Rizzuto, O. Pinto, P. Becchi
Journal: Ocean Engineering, Volume 333, Article 121412
Year: 2025
Summary:
This paper presents a full-scale application of a propeller optimization approach aimed at reducing underwater radiated noise. It combines computational and experimental methodologies to optimize the propeller geometry. The study focuses on mitigating cavitation effects while maintaining hydrodynamic performance and evaluates the results through numerical simulations and full-scale measurements.
2. Comparison Between Measured and Predicted Airborne Noise Sources on the External Surface of a Cruise Ship
Authors: L. Mocerino, M. Viscardi, T. Gaggero, E. Rizzuto, D. Borelli, C. Schenone
Publication: Innovations in the Analysis and Design of Marine Structures, Page 475
Year: 2025
Summary:
This study compares measured and predicted airborne noise levels on a cruise ship’s external surfaces. It evaluates the performance of acoustic prediction tools by validating them with field measurements. The research identifies major noise-emitting components and assesses the discrepancies between simulations and actual data.
3. Quantification of Airborne Noise Emitted by Ships Based on Class Notation
Authors: M. Biot, D. Borelli, T. Gaggero, E. Lembo, L. Mocerino, G. Rognoni
Journal: Ocean Engineering, Volume 296, Article 117085
Year: 2024
Summary:
The paper presents a methodology for quantifying airborne noise emissions from ships in relation to classification society notations. It includes both numerical modeling and measurement campaigns to assess the correlation between noise levels and class limits, offering a framework for standardized evaluation.
4. Electric Boat Underwater Radiated Noise and Its Potential Impact on Species of Conservation Interest
Authors: T. Gaggero, E. Armelloni, A. Codarin, C. Chicco, M. Spoto, C. Franzosini
Journal: Marine Pollution Bulletin, Volume 199, Article 115937
Year: 2024
Summary:
This study investigates the underwater radiated noise generated by electric boats and its potential environmental impacts on marine species of conservation concern. Acoustic measurements were performed in marine protected areas to understand how low-emission vessels affect sensitive ecosystems.
5. Numerical Models for the Prediction of Ship Airborne Noise Emissions
Authors: M. Biot, G. Rognoni, C. Schenone, D. Borelli, E. Rizzuto, T. Gaggero
Conference: Proceedings of the International Congress on Sound and Vibration
Year: 2024
Summary:
The paper introduces numerical models developed for predicting airborne noise emissions from ships. These models incorporate structural and acoustic analyses to simulate noise propagation paths and identify dominant sources on board. The study serves to enhance ship design practices and regulatory compliance.
CONCLUSION
Prof. Tomaso Gaggero stands out as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Naval Architecture. His unique blend of deep academic knowledge, technical innovation, international collaboration, and environmental commitment places him at the forefront of maritime research. His work addresses urgent global challenges, such as the ecological impact of shipborne noise, and sets industry-leading standards in sustainable ship design and noise mitigation.
With growing global emphasis on green maritime practices, Prof. Gaggero’s contributions are not only academically significant but also strategically vital for the future of environmentally responsible naval engineering.