Paul Bouman

Dr. Paul Bouman is an Associate Professor at the Erasmus School of Economics (Erasmus University Rotterdam), affiliated with the Econometric Institute. He holds a PhD in Operations Research (2017) from Erasmus University, focusing on passenger behavior and complexity in public transport. His research interests span algorithm design, logistics optimization, public transportation systems, and computational methods for resource allocation.

**Education**:
- BSc in Computer Science (Utrecht University) with a minor in Artificial Intelligence
- MSc in Applied Computing Sciences (Utrecht University), thesis on Recoverable Robust Optimization
- PhD in Complexity in Public Transport (Erasmus University Rotterdam), thesis: “Passengers, Crowding and Complexity”

**Research Focus**:
Bouman’s work addresses challenges in public transport optimization, including route planning, disruption management, and algorithmic solutions for logistics. He explores decentralized control systems, ship-to-shore logistics, and evolutionary road network modeling. His research integrates operations research, complexity science, and computational tools.

**Teaching & Tools**:
He teaches programming and operations research courses, supervising over 20+ master’s theses annually. He developed tools like Grade Handler (browser-based grading system) and Examination Software for online proctoring. His scheduling software automates teaching assistant assignments using optimization algorithms.

**Affiliations**:
- Erasmus Research Institute of Management (ERIM)
- Erasmus Center for Optimization in Public Transport (ECOPT)
- Dutch Network on Mathematics of Operations Research (LNMB)

**Impact**:
Bouman’s research contributes to improving public transport efficiency and resilience. Notably, his student Rolf van Lieshout’s thesis received an honorable mention in the TSL Dissertation Award.