The Quantitative Analysis in Shipping Laborato (QuALS) is a specialized research and training facility within the University of Piraeus – Department of Maritime Studies, established in 2015 (Government Gazette: ΦΕΚ B’ 1725/18-8-2015). QuALS addresses critical educational, training, research and innovation needs in maritime transport, ports and logistics, with a strong focus on quantitative analysis, including modeling, forecasting, data analytics, and market studies. The laborato conducts both basic and applied research, contributing high-impact scientific publications and participating in national, European and international research collaborations. Through its interdisciplina expertise, QuALS delivers advisory services, professional training and evidence-based insights that support innovation, policy development and operational efficiency in the shipping industry.

QuALS maintains strong partnerships with stakeholders across the shipping industry, government bodies, academic institutions, and research organizations, working collaboratively to develop pragmatic solutions for real-world maritime challenges. Strategically located in Piraeus, Greece, adjacent to the Port of Piraeus, one of Europe’s largest and most dynamic ports, and close to the Port of Eleusis, one of the oldest in Europe, the laborato benefits from direct access to an extensive maritime and logistics ecosystem. 
This unique positioning allows QuALS to function as a living test bed, where research outcomes, models, and technologies are tested and validated under actual operating conditions.
 
With a combination of cutting-edge infrastructure, immersive simulation environments, and access to major maritime assets, QuALS offers a dynamic setting for basic and applied research, specialized training, and real-world experimentation, reinforcing its role as a hub of maritime knowledge, innovation, and skills development.
Our Vision is to establish QuALS as a global benchmark for quantitative insight, strategic foresight, and sustainable progress in maritime transport, ports and logistics, strengthening the shipping industry through pioneering research, specialized training, and collaborative innovation.
 
Our Mission is to deliver cutting-edge quantitative research, forward-looking education, and real-world innovation that addresses the complex challenges of the shipping industry , while fostering strategic partnerships, enhancing workforce skills, and advancing digital and sustainable transformation in maritime transport, ports and logistics.

Research Areas

QuALS conducts cutting-edge research across diverse areas of maritime science and technology, integrating data analytics, modeling, and digital innovation to enhance decision-making, efficiency, and resilience in shipping and port operations. Our research spans from market analysis and risk assessment to infrastructure management and advanced simulation technologies.

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Equipment

QuALS is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enabling advanced research, simulation, and data analysis in the maritime sector. The laborato ’s cutting-edge infrastructure supports a wide range of applications, including autonomous vessel operations, remote sensing, port and logistics optimization, and maritime safety and security assessments.

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Research Projects

Study on the Capacity for Greening of European Sea Ports
Active Project

The study will identify (a) the adverse environmental effects pertaining to ports, (b) the legislation and policies addressing them and which are not addressed and (c) the impediments for ports in pursuing green objectives.

Blue Growth Smart Adriatic Ionian S3 – BLUEAIR
Active Project

In the Adriatic-Ionian regions Blue Growth Innovation policies are characterized by a fragmented situation, with pioneering and lagging regions searching for a joint knowledge-based approach to their innovation strategies to enhance the blue growth sectors in their territories.

Sectoral Study on the potential of Agrologistics in Greece
Completed Project

Funded by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation through the New Agriculture New Generation Program (2019 – 2020). The objective of the Sectoral Study on the potential of Agrologisticts in Greece is threefold. 

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