Thorsten Koch

Thorsten Koch serves as Head of the Department of Applied Algorithmic Intelligence Methods within the Division of Mathematical Algorithmic Intelligence at Zuse Institute Berlin (ZIB). His research spans mathematical optimization, energy systems modeling, quantum computing applications, and scientometrics. Koch leads significant research projects including FAN (focusing on AI in scholarly communication), UNSEEN (energy scenarios), HPO-NAVI (research software visibility), and Multi-Energy Models for European Energy System Planning.

Koch's research interests center on developing advanced optimization algorithms for complex systems, particularly in energy networks and scientific data analysis. His work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical applications in gas network optimization, wind farm design, portfolio management, and quantum computing. He has pioneered methods for large-scale mixed-integer programming, scenario generation, and the integration of machine learning with traditional optimization techniques. His recent publications demonstrate growing emphasis on quantum optimization, scientometrics, and the application of AI to scientific communication infrastructure.

His publication trends reveal a strategic expansion from traditional mathematical optimization into quantum computing applications and scientific data infrastructure. Recent work shows increasing collaboration across disciplines - connecting energy systems analysis with financial modeling, integrating machine learning with optimization solvers, and applying computational methods to scientometrics. The 15 most recent articles highlight three major thrusts: quantum optimization (33%), energy systems modeling (27%), and scientific data infrastructure (40%), reflecting his leadership in both theoretical algorithm development and practical implementation for societal challenges.

Koch actively contributes to research infrastructure through leadership roles in projects like KOBV (Berlin-Brandenburg Cooperative Library Network), HDC (Humanities Data Centre), and CIB (future library networks). His work on the DeepGreen initiative focuses on establishing legally secure workflows for implementing open-access components in scientific publication licensing agreements, demonstrating his commitment to open science principles and research data management.