Prof. Jack van der Vorst is the Personal Professor of AgriFood Supply Chain Logistics at Wageningen University's Operations Research and Logistics Group. Previously serving as a member of the Board of Directors of Wageningen University & Research (until 2024) and General Director of the Social Sciences Group, he leads over 1000 personnel across three institutes. His advisory roles include the Topteam AgriFood (Science Captain), Top consortium for Knowledge and Innovation (TKI), The Sustainability Consortium (TSC), and Florensis BV's Supervisory Board. With 20+ PhD supervisions and 200+ publications, his research focuses on innovative logistics concepts in AgriFood systems, including supply chain resilience, sustainability, and system innovation. His work integrates modeling frameworks with practical industry applications, emphasizing perishable products, horizontal collaboration, and environmental efficiency. Research interests span AgriFood System Design, Supply Chain Strategy, and Performance Management. His recent studies address challenges like postharvest loss reduction in developing countries, CO2 emission minimization in cold chains, and circular economy implementation in mushroom supply chains. Methodologically, he employs multi-criteria decision models, optimization techniques, and simulation to address complex logistics problems. Publications highlight themes such as horizontal collaboration success factors, vulnerability assessment frameworks, and green supply chain design. His work bridges academic rigor with industry needs, often collaborating with policymakers and international organizations to promote sustainable agri-food systems.
Prof. Iris F.A. Vis is a Professor of Industrial Engineering at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Economics and Business. She specializes in logistics and operations management, focusing on optimizing processes through quantitative and qualitative methods. Her work intersects logistics with sectors like healthcare, education, and energy. She leads major projects such as SMiLES (sustainable mobility-logistics integration) and designs logistics solutions for personalized learning systems in schools. She has advised over a dozen PhD students and collaborates with industry partners globally. Awards include Fellowship in the Netherlands Academy of Engineering. Education: M.Sc. Mathematics (Leiden University), PhD in Operations Management (Erasmus University Rotterdam) Roles: Captain of Science for Topsector Logistics, Member of multiple national advisory boards Research interests span sustainable transportation networks, port optimization, healthcare logistics, and educational logistics. Key projects include LNG supply chain design, offshore wind farm maintenance planning, and synchromodal transport networks. Over 45 peer-reviewed publications and 18 media engagements highlight her impactful contributions. Teaching includes courses on supply chain network design, technology-enabled innovation, and operations management at all academic levels. She advises on industrial partnerships and digital transformation initiatives in the Northern Netherlands region.
Eduardo Lalla-Ruiz is an Associate Professor in Logistics and Operations Research at the Department of High Tech Business and Entrepreneurship (HBE) at the University of Twente, Netherlands. He serves as educational director for the Industrial Engineering and Management (IEM) bachelor and master programmes. His academic journey includes degrees from the University of La Laguna (Spain): BSc in Industrial Engineering, MSc in Industrial Automation Engineering, MSc in Computer Science & AI, and a PhD with extraordinary distinction. Previously, he worked as a researcher and lecturer at the University of Hamburg’s Institute of Information Systems, where he became an Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellow. His research focuses on logistics optimization, mathematical programming, AI applications, and metaheuristics for scheduling and allocation problems. He has published widely, reviewed for journals, and organized academic sessions globally. Awards include his doctoral distinction and Humboldt Fellowship. He actively contributes to interdisciplinary projects at the Digital Society Institute. No specific labs/teams are explicitly mentioned in the provided text.
Martijn Mes is a full professor of Transportation and Logistics Management and chair of the Industrial Engineering & Business Information Systems section at the University of Twente, Netherlands. He leads research and education initiatives that integrate AI, simulation and optimisation into logistics and supply-chain innovation. Education: Ph.D. in Operations Research, University of Twente – 2008 M.Sc. in Applied Mathematics, University of Twente – 2002 Post-doctoral researcher, Princeton University, Dept. of Operations Research & Financial Engineering Research focus: Mes develops quantitative models and AI techniques for strategic, tactical and operational logistics challenges. His work spans three application pillars: Emergency & humanitarian logistics – rapid relief distribution with trucks and UAVs Urban logistics – city distribution, self-organising systems and last-mile innovations Sustainable logistics – synchromodal transport, green ports and electric/autonomous fleets Methodologically he combines approximate dynamic programming, reinforcement learning, multi-agent simulation, discrete-event simulation and stochastic optimisation to create decision-support tools for industry and government. Publications trend: Recent articles (2025-2022) exhibit a strong emphasis on integrating reinforcement learning and stochastic optimisation into dynamic vehicle routing, drone-assisted delivery and post-disaster inventory allocation, signalling a shift towards data-driven, real-time logistic systems. Grants & projects: Mes has coordinated and participated in numerous national and European projects on sustainable logistics, urban distribution, port optimisation and healthcare logistics, frequently collaborating with industry partners and public bodies. Teaching & supervision: He coordinates and lectures in the BSc and MSc programmes Industrial Engineering & Management, offering courses on simulation, queueing theory, dynamic programming, Markov chains, transportation management and technology management. He has authored a widely used Plant Simulation tutorial and supervises PhD candidates working on AI-driven logistics, autonomous vehicles and digital twins.
Tom van Woensel is a Full Professor of Freight Transport and Logistics at Eindhoven University of Technology (Netherlands), affiliated with the School of Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences and the Department of Operations Planning Accounting & Control. He also holds roles as Academic Director of the Global Supply Chain Management program at Antwerp Management School and Director of the European Supply Chain Forum. His research focuses on freight transport, logistics systems, and operations research methodologies, with contributions to over 150 peer-reviewed publications in journals like Transportation Science and European Journal of Operational Research . Education: BSc/MSc in Applied Economic Sciences (Econometrics), University of Antwerp (Belgium) PhD: Queueing Theoretical Approaches for Traffic Flow Networks, University of Antwerp Research Interests: Optimization of transport and logistics networks using integer programming, metaheuristics, and reinforcement learning Urban freight systems, last-mile delivery, and sustainable logistics Supply chain resilience, collaboration in logistics networks, and industry-academia partnerships Applications of AI in solving stochastic transportation problems Awards and Recognition: Outstanding Professor in Supply Chain & Logistics (2021) European Journal of Operational Research Best Review Paper (2016) INFORMS Senior Member (2024) Collaborations and Projects: Leads initiatives like SYNERCIZE (zero-emission construction logistics) and Circulaire stromen (circular logistics) Editorial roles at Transportation Science , OR Spectrum , and Urban Science Active in industry partnerships through the European Supply Chain Forum (75+ multinationals) Labs/Teams: EAISI Mobility (Eindhoven AI Systems Institute) CIRRELT (Montreal, Canada) collaborating member
Laurens Bliek is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). He specializes in combining artificial intelligence (AI) with optimization techniques for computationally intensive problems, focusing on sustainable applications such as public transport, electric vehicles, and CO 2 reduction. Education: MSc in Applied Mathematics (2014), PhD in Systems & Control (2019) from Delft University of Technology. Prior Role: Postdoctoral researcher at the Algorithmics group, Delft University of Technology. Research Interests: His work addresses AI-driven optimization of expensive cost functions, particularly in logistics, communications, and healthcare. He develops methods to handle computationally intensive simulators and digital twins, emphasizing real-time decision-making and sustainability. Recent Publications: His research spans predictive maintenance using Fourier graph neural networks, real-time container yard allocation, and 5G network optimization. Articles appear in journals like IEEE Transactions on Neural Networks and Learning Systems and Computer Networks . Collaborations: Laurens collaborates with industry partners (LioniX, Dutch Railways) and organizations (European Supply Chain Forum, Logistics Community Brabant). He co-leads the 12-PhD program AI Planner of the Future and participates in AI sustainability working groups. Supervision: Co-promotor of PhD students Ya Song and Abdo Abouelrous, focusing on AI applications in routing and maintenance logistics.
Prof. dr. Kees Jan Roodbergen is a Professor of Quantitative Logistics at the University of Groningen and Director of the Center for Operational Excellence. He holds a MSc in Econometrics & Operations Research from the University of Groningen and a PhD from Erasmus University Rotterdam. His research focuses on E-commerce Logistics, Warehouse Optimization, Vehicle Routing, and Inventory Management, applying Operations Research techniques to practical challenges. He has led projects like PIONEER (2019), e-global (2017), and 'Towards Virtual Ports' (2015), securing external funding from TKI Dinalog, NWO, and Interreg IVB. He serves on the Scientific Advisory Council of the Global Cold Chain Foundation and has been involved in jury roles for e-commerce awards. His teaching spans courses on Value Chain Management, Facility Design, and Discrete Operations Research. Education: MSc from University of Groningen (Econometrics & OR), PhD from Erasmus University Rotterdam. Ancillary roles include editorial advisory boards for professional magazines and program boards for TRAIL Research School and Graduate Program Operations Management & Logistics. Research contributions emphasize practical applications, such as warehouse optimization methods integrated into management systems. Grants and Projects: Highlighted projects include PIONEER (TKI Dinalog), e-global (NWO), and collaborations with industry. His work addresses sustainable logistics, digital transformation, and operational efficiency. He has published in journals like Operations Research and Transportation Science.
Dr. Arpan Rijal is an Assistant Professor at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Economics and Business, specializing in Operations Management & Operations Research. His research focuses on optimization methodologies, particularly in personnel scheduling, energy systems modeling, and warehouse operations. He holds positions in the Operations department and contributes to the PANOPTIWORK research initiative. His work is supported by grants from the Dutch Research Council (NWO) and the European Union, addressing workforce well-being and aviation sector energy systems. Notable contributions include publications in European Journal of Operational Research , Transportation Science , and Production and Operations Management . Rijal has received prestigious awards: the 2021 Facility Logistics Outstanding Paper Award and the Transportation Science Meritorious Service Award. His research bridges academic insights with practical applications, emphasizing sustainability and policy integration through systemic approaches to SDG acceleration.
Prof. Sandjai Bhulai is a Full Professor at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam's Faculty of Science (Department of Mathematics) and holds affiliations with the Network Institute. He specializes in machine learning, operations research, and their applications in telecommunications, healthcare, and optimization. His research addresses real-world challenges such as suicide prevention through AI-driven systems, signal processing in underwater acoustics, and dynamic dispatch algorithms for logistics. Key research interests include machine learning algorithms for classification and prediction, reinforcement learning for optimization problems, and data-driven decision-making in healthcare and transportation. He has pioneered methods like the 'Dutch Draw' baseline for binary classification and contributed to ambulance dispatch systems and power grid topology optimization. Prof. Bhulai has published over 137 research outputs, including high-impact articles in International Journal of Medical Informatics , Ocean Engineering , and Transportation Science . He received the Best Paper Award (2018) and led projects such as the AI-BIPTO initiative for integrated production optimization. He advises on technical and ethical committees, including roles at NWO and the Mondriaanfonds. His teaching spans advanced courses in machine learning, algebraic geometry, and linear programming.
Rene Peeters is an Assistant Professor at Tilburg University, affiliated with the Department of Econometrics and Operations Research within the Tilburg School of Economics and Management (TiSEM). His research focuses on discrete mathematics, algebraic graph theory, and combinatorial optimization. He holds a Ph.D. from Tilburg University (1991–1995) and has been a faculty member since 1995. His work spans theoretical contributions to graph theory and practical applications in logistics, including urban freight transportation and vehicle routing problems. In logistics research, he addresses challenges such as optimizing delivery routes, outsourcing strategies, and stakeholder collaboration in urban settings. His technical contributions include advancements in variable neighborhood search algorithms and matrix theory, particularly in analyzing adjacency matrices and (0,1)-matrices. Peeters teaches courses like Combinatorial Optimization and coordinates the Improving Society Lab for EOR (Econometrics and Operations Research).
Nicu N. Goga is an external researcher at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, specializing in computational methods with applications spanning transportation systems, robotics, and renewable energy. His work integrates advanced simulation techniques across multiple engineering disciplines to solve complex real-world problems. Dr. Goga's research demonstrates exceptional interdisciplinary breadth, with core expertise in computer simulation and molecular dynamics. He has pioneered adaptive route optimization solutions for commercial fleets, developed affordable humanoid robotics platforms like Miha, and engineered EEG-based brain-computer interfaces for consumer electronics. His molecular dynamics work focuses on photoelectrochemical water splitting for sustainable hydrogen production, directly contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals in clean energy and industry innovation. Analysis of his 2021-2025 publications reveals a strategic evolution from fundamental computational chemistry toward applied engineering solutions. While maintaining molecular dynamics as a foundational methodology, his recent work increasingly targets transportation logistics and human-robot interaction, showcasing a deliberate shift toward high-impact applications in commercial and assistive technologies. Affiliated with the Molecular Dynamics research group at Groningen, Dr. Goga operates within a robust collaborative network evidenced by international co-authorship patterns. His technical fingerprint spans computer simulation engineering, model checking, multiscale modeling, and distributed systems architecture, reflecting a versatile computational toolkit applied across diverse problem domains.
Marco Slikker is an Associate Professor of Operations Management and Game Theory at the Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences (IE&IS) at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). He is affiliated with the Operations, Planning, Accounting, and Control research group, where he focuses on applying game theory to operations management settings. His work bridges theoretical game theory concepts with practical applications in resource allocation, inventory management, and collaborative decision-making across various industries. Marco Slikker completed his education at Tilburg University, where he: Graduated in Econometrics with a specialization in Management Science in 1995 Conducted PhD research at the Department of Econometrics and the CentER research institute Obtained his doctorate in 2000 with the thesis 'Decision making and cooperation restrictions' Professor Slikker's research focuses on acknowledging individual decision makers in operations management settings through applications and extensions of game theory. His work spans both cooperative and non-cooperative game theory frameworks, examining how strategic behavior affects operational efficiency and resource allocation. Key areas include resource pooling, cost allocation mechanisms, sequencing games, and incentive system design. He particularly investigates how independent entities can collaborate effectively while addressing conflicts between individual incentives and collective benefits. Analysis of Professor Slikker's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on applying game-theoretic approaches to operations management problems. His work demonstrates an evolution from foundational theoretical contributions in network games and sequencing situations toward increasingly applied research in resource pooling, spare parts inventory management, and collaborative supply chains. A notable trend is his focus on core stability in cooperative games, with multiple papers establishing conditions under which stable cost allocation solutions exist. His research increasingly incorporates practical constraints and real-world considerations while maintaining strong theoretical foundations. While specific awards aren't detailed in the provided materials, Professor Slikker's work has garnered significant academic recognition through: Publications in top-tier journals including Operations Research, Management Science, and Mathematics of Operations Research Substantial citation counts (e.g., 51 citations for his 2015 Operations Research paper) Collaborative research with prominent scholars in operations management and game theory Professor Slikker teaches courses including 'Game theory with applications to operations management,' 'Proof techniques for IE,' and 'Microeconomics.' While specific PhD students aren't listed in the provided materials, his research group likely mentors graduate students working on game theory applications in operations management. His research has received funding including a joint grant from NWO and ProRail (Grant 438-12-305) supporting work on spare parts pooling. His collaborative approach is evident in numerous co-authored publications addressing practical industry challenges through game-theoretic frameworks. Professor Slikker is affiliated with the Operations, Planning, Accounting, and Control research group at TU/e's Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences. His work appears connected to EAISI (Eindhoven Artificial Intelligence Systems Institute) High Tech Systems, particularly regarding spare parts inventory research. He collaborates extensively with researchers both within TU/e (including W.L. van Jaarsveld and G.J.J.A.N. van Houtum) and internationally, forming interdisciplinary teams that bridge theoretical game theory with practical operations management applications.
Dr. Layla van der Heide-Martin is an Assistant Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), affiliated with the School of Industrial Engineering and Innovation Sciences and the Department of Operations Planning Accounting & Control. She also holds the EAISI Mobility Assistant Professor position. Her research addresses operational challenges in transportation and logistics, specializing in shared mobility systems (carsharing, bikesharing, ride-hailing) and strategic fleet design using advanced optimization methods. Education PhD (Dr. rer. pol.) from Technical University of Munich (2020) MSc in Information Systems from Technical University of Munich (2017) BSc from Cooperative State University Baden-Württemberg (2015) Research Focus Layla investigates transportation logistics through multidisciplinary approaches, including mixed integer programming, Markov decision processes, and game theory. Her work balances strategic planning (e.g., fleet sizing) with operational realities, emphasizing collaborations with methodological experts to solve complex mobility challenges. Recent projects target sustainable freight transport and shared system optimization. Research Output Trends Her 15+ publications (2017-present) focus on optimization algorithms for vehicle routing, shared mobility economics, and sustainable urban transport. Articles in Transportation Science and European Journal of Operational Research demonstrate consistent themes: algorithmic efficiency, policy impact analysis, and integrated transport systems. Awards Dissertation Prize (2021) Best Teacher Propaedeutic, Industria Education Awards (2024) Advising & Projects She supervises 6 PhD students and collaborates with postdoctoral researchers. Current grants include: SYNERCIZE: Zero-emission construction transport networks (2025-2027) Integrated Energy/Logistics Planning for Electric Trucking (2024-2028) Innovative Waterway Transportation 2.0 (2023-2026)
B. Atasoy is an Associate Professor at Delft University of Technology's Transport & Mobility Institute, specializing in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Transport Engineering and Logistics. His work integrates operations research, synchromodal transport planning, and sustainable logistics systems. He leads projects like ADAPT-OR (2024-2028) and PATH2ZERO (2023-2027), addressing adaptive transportation systems and zero-emission shipping. His research explores intermodal freight optimization, electric ground support equipment, and future mobility scenarios. He has received awards including the Swiss Operations Research Society prize (2014) and the 2024 Best Academic Paper Award. His recent work includes analyzing the Dutch mobility system's 2050 scenarios and developing learning-based frameworks for synchromodal transport planning. He collaborates with industry and academic partners on projects such as NOVIMOVE and TRiLOGy, advancing waterborne logistics and autonomous shipping. Research Interests: Transport Engineering, Operations Research, Synchromodal Transport, Freight Optimization, Sustainable Mobility, Electric Vehicle Transition, and Urban Logistics. His projects often involve interdisciplinary collaboration, combining data-driven modeling with real-world applications. Grants & Projects: ADAPT-OR (2024-2028), PATH2ZERO (2023-2027), TRiLOGy (2020-2025), NOVIMOVE (2020-2024). These focus on adaptive systems, zero-emission shipping, and waterway logistics. Awards: 5 notable prizes including the 2014 Swiss OR Society award and 2024 Best Paper for synchromodal planning research.
S. Fazi is a researcher at the Department of Technology, Policy and Management , Delft University of Technology. Her work focuses on transport logistics , operations research , and container shipping , with particular attention to offshore wind energy , multimodal networks , and freight transportation . Transport & Logistics network design Operations Research for optimization Offshore wind farm logistics Recent research trends include multimodal hub location problems , container drayage optimization , and collaborative air cargo frameworks . She has contributed to offshore wind turbine substructure installation strategies and dry-port logistics through data-driven models and decision support systems. Scientific awards : NWA - ORC 2022 - Onderzoek op Routes door Consortia (2023) Open Education Stimulation Fund 2022 (2023) Her work spans freight network design , maritime container stowage , and resource sharing in wind energy maintenance , often involving large-scale optimization algorithms and collaborative frameworks.
