This postdoc position is part of the CUSTOMIZE project (Customer-driven prescriptive analytics for logistics planning) funded by the Netherlands Oraganisation for Scientific Research (NWO). The project is aimed at the estimation of customer demand and optimization of logistics services.

The project is divided in two parts. The first part aims to develop a model to forecast logistics demand at micro-level. The forecasting model looks to infer the behavior of the customers by using transaction data. In the second part, we integrate the forecasting model into an optimization framework. The optimization model determines the expected number of vehicles and their locations to perform their services. Finally, all the developed elements will be integrated into a simulation model for real-time optimization of the on-demand system. The developed models will be tested and validated on real-life cases. The necessary data will be provided by our industrial partners Takeaway.com and PostNL.

The selected researcher will have a close collaboration with the industrial partners and the department of Econometrics of the Erasmus University Rotterdam. The duration of the appoitnment is 19 months, starting as early as possible but ultimately by 06/2020. 

The successful candidate should have a strong background in operations research. Basic knowledge of data analytics and discrete choice modelling are desirable, but not a strict requirement.

Phd in transportation or logistics related field. Solid background in operations research. Experienced in programming operations research models. Good analytical and communication skills.

Fixed-term contract: from 01/06/2020 - 31/12/2021.

The 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. Coming to Delft Service organizes diverse events for new international employees and their accompanying partners, like Partner Career Workshops and Dutch Culture Workshops. Located on campus are the International Children’s Centre and an international primary school which are subject to availability as well as several bilingual schools in the nearby surrounding. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.   

Technische Universiteit Delft

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. TU Delft develops technologies for future generations, focusing on sustainability, safety and economic vitality. TU Delft comprises eight faculties, unique laboratories, research institutes and schools. TU Delft was ranked third in the global Shanghai ranking on Transportation Science & Technology in 2019.

Faculty Technology, Policy and Management

The Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management (TPM) contributes to sustainable solutions for technological challenges in society by combining the insights from engineering with the humanities and the social sciences.

The postdoctoral researcher will be positioned in the Engineering Systems and Services (ESS) department. The department aims to shape emerging technological innovations in the increasingly interconnected sectors of energy, mobility and ICT by contributing to the scholarly debate at the highest international level. The position is established within the Transport and Logistics (TLO) section.