Sunday, July 26, 2020

[DMANET] PhD position for Data-driven optimization for sustainable network design (University of Primorska and InnoRenew CoE)

A PhD position is available at the University of Primorska, Slovenia in
the topic "Data-driven optimization for sustainable network design". The
successful candidate will be part of InnoRenew CoE's ICT research group
(Izola, Slovenia) and as a doctoral student will enrol in the Computer
Science doctoral program at the University of Primorska (Koper,
Slovenia).

Using networks to model real-world problems is a powerful tool, as they
provide an efficient abstraction that can be used to analyse the
structure of the task at hand. Ranging from sensor networks to supply
chains, there is an underlying complex network for a wide array of
different everyday applications. Sustainability plays an important role
in the design of these networks when considering various optimisation
questions such as energy minimisation or the reuse of waste materials.
The objectives and constraints of these optimisation problems are
generally strongly influenced by a large amount of available measured
data.

Tasks and Goals
The focus of the research is to analyse the underlying structure of
selected real-world problems and design efficient network
representations for them. The above goal is intended to be achieved by:
• Collecting and studying available data related to the problems,
identifying crucial underlying information;
• Using the extracted information, efficient solution methods should be
developed for problems arising in these networks. Mathematical
programming and metaheuristic approaches can both be used for this
purpose;
• Showing the efficiency of the developed tools and methods by
implementing simulation environments.
The methods and tools developed above will be adapted for real-world
data in connection with interdisciplinary projects. The successful
candidate will also contribute to applications for grant-funded research
projects and publish their research in high-level international journals
and prestigious conferences in the field.

Required qualifications
• Master's degree in computer science, information technology,
mathematics, or related area
• Strong command of at least one major high-level programming language
(e.g. C++, Java, Python)
• Solid background in algorithm design and data structures
• High motivation to carry out interdisciplinary research projects
• Ability to solve complex problems with the development of methodical
and analytical approaches
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English
• Ability to interact with industry and other researchers

Preferred qualifications
• Experience in implementing graph algorithms
• Strong operations research background
• Knowledge of optimization and modelling software
• Participation in applied research projects (industrial or
grant-funded)
• Ability to formulate and communicate new research ideas and prepare
research proposals

The InnoRenew CoE (https://innorenew.eu/) was established based on a
flagship project funded by the European Commission and the Republic of
Slovenia.
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