Thorsten Koch

Thorsten Koch is a Professor for Software and Algorithms for Discrete Optimization at Technische Universität Berlin, with multiple leadership roles including Head of the Applied Algorithmic Intelligence Methods (A²IM), Digital Data and Information for Society, Science, and Culture (D²IS²C), Kooperativer Bibliotheksverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (KOBV), and Forschungs- und Kompetenzzentrum Digitalisierung Berlin (digiS). Based at Zuse Institute Berlin and affiliated with TU Berlin's Institute for Mathematics, he focuses on integrating mathematical optimization with high-performance computing and artificial intelligence to solve complex real-world problems.

• Research Pillars:
  • Mathematical optimization algorithms
  • Quantum computing applications
  • AI/ML integration in decision systems
  • Energy systems optimization
  • Scientific software development
• Leadership Roles:
  • Head of Applied Algorithmic Intelligence Methods (A²IM)
  • Head of Digital Data & Information for Society, Science, and Culture (D²IS²C)
  • Head of Kooperativer Bibliotheksverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (KOBV)
  • Head of Forschungs- und Kompetenzzentrum Digitalisierung Berlin (digiS)
• Key Collaborations:
  • Working with IBM Quantum on quantum optimization
  • Collaborating across institutions for energy system modeling
  • Developing open-source optimization tools like SCIP
  • Contributing to digital library infrastructure
• Recent Research Trends:
  • Quantum optimization benchmarking
  • Machine learning-aided optimization
  • Multi-objective decision frameworks
  • Energy infrastructure optimization
  • Adaptive algorithm design
  • CO2 network modeling
• Impact:
  • Advancing hybrid optimization methods
  • Developing open-source tools for scientific computing
  • Building digital infrastructures for libraries and research
  • Exploring quantum-classical algorithm synergies