The project is entitled “Machine Learning and Meta-Optimization: A Hybrid Approach to Operational Research in Logistics” and concerns the combination of heuristic and learning methods for logistics problem in operational research. The objective of this PhD thesis is to combine learning methods with current heuristics, in order to improve them in terms of both computation time and quality of results. This approach fits within a current and relevant line of research in combinatorial optimization.

The project is entitled “Machine Learning and Meta-Optimization: A Hybrid Approach to Operational Research in Logistics” and concerns the combination of heuristic and learning methods for logistics problem in operational research. The objective of this PhD thesis is to combine learning methods with current heuristics, in order to improve them in terms of both computation time and quality of results. This approach fits within a current and relevant line of research in combinatorial optimization.

LJMU's Freeport and Net Zero Transport Thematic Doctoral Pathways (FTDP) programme is offering six full PhD scholarships (UK/international) to develop two PhD cohorts who will apply their skills in AI, operational research, engineering, and science to tackle transport/logistics decarbonisation, with a focus on UK freeports. This call is for the first cohort (3 PhD scholarships) and is open to both UK and international candidates. The three topics for the first cohort are: Optimising the planning and operations of alternative fuel vehicles, Machine learning or material analyses using intelligent sensors for Net Zero, Digitalisation and cyber security for freeports.