This project aims to design effective incentives through models for collaboration under limited information sharing and to find efficient algorithmic strategies for both distributed and central problem settings. For this purpose, mixed-integer programming (MIP) and multi-agent simulation (MAS) modeling as well as non-cooperative and cooperative game theory are explored and used to define sub-projects. We focus on problems in which these methods are combined to enable efficient and sustainable collaboration. One line in our research addresses the problem of limited information sharing due to competition or technological constraints and develops MAS approaches with local, agent-based MIP models. Our second research line investigates the design of cooperation incentives using cooperative game theory and dynamic pricing to allocate benefits from cooperation and to determine prices that stimulate cooperation, respectively. 

In cooperation with the project team, the postdoctoral researcher will be developing the proof-of-concept for cooperative transportation in the proposed lines of research and collaborate with the supervisors to create a research proposal for a bigger (international) project in order to advance this research. In general, the postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to develop through working on  publications in academic journals, learning to acquire (international) funding, or supervising graduation and PhD students in cooperation with project team.  

Depending on the background of the candidate, the postdoctoral researcher will be bringing together different areas: (1) optimization and simulation of cooperative transportation and logistics, (2) optimization of network models, (3) integration of behavioral models in transport decisions, and (4) optimization-based game theoretical approaches.  

The project supervisors are the following assistant professors:  Frederik Schulte (Transport Engineering & Logistics, M&TT), Bilge Atasoy (Transport Engineering & Logistics, M&TT), Javier Alonso-Mora (Cognitive Robotics, COR), Sergio Grammatico (Complex multi-agent Systems & Control, DCSC).

Applications should hold a PhD degree (or close to completion) in Transportation, or Operations Research, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, with background and interest in, Optimization, Simulation and Game Theory, and with good command of the English language (knowledge of Dutch is not required). Expertise in mixed-integer optimization and multi-agent simulation is appreciated.

TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount for health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged. An International Children’s Centre offers childcare and an international primary school. Dual Career Services offers support to accompanying partners. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) is a multifaceted institution offering education and carrying out research in the technical sciences at an internationally recognised level. Education, research and design are strongly oriented towards applicability. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. At TU Delft you will work in an environment where technical sciences and society converge. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools.

https://www.tudelft.nl

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

The 3mE Faculty trains committed engineering students, PhD candidates and post-doctoral researchers in groundbreaking scientific research in the fields of mechanical, maritime and materials engineering. 3mE is the epitome of a dynamic, innovative faculty, with a European scope that contributes demonstrable economic and social benefits. 

The Department of Maritime and Transport Technology (MTT) studies how to develop, design, build and operate marine, dredging and transport systems and their equipment. New generation transport and marine systems require the further development of the knowledge of the dynamics and the physical processes involved in transport, dredging and marine systems, the logistics of the systems and the interaction between the equipment and control systems. For more information on the research activities of M&TT department, please see: https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me/organisation/organisation/departments/maritime-and-transport-technology/.

https://www.tudelft.nl/en/3me