Operations research for bus network design

The CIB research group, partner in LIM, has more than 15 years of experience with applying operations research techniques to public transport planning. The project aims to narrow the gap between theory and practice related to the design of public bus networks. Models and optimization techniques within the domain of operations research will be developed to address these challenges.

Project

This PhD research corresponds to a KU Leuven funded research project.

Project abstract : When operators redesign a public bus system, it is still largely a manual process. There is some software available to generate input data or evaluate certain scenarios, but decision support for the actual planning phase, optimizing the design decisions, is usually lacking. This project will address three challenges that contribute to the current gap between theory and practice. (1) The potential synergy between fixed public transport and demand-responsive transport is generally ignored when these two types of public transport are planned consecutively. (2) Demand elasticity is ignored in most studies. (3) In practice, social considerations are also taken into account (emissions, mobility poverty, transit-oriented development, etc.). Models and optimization techniques within the domain of operations research will be developed to address these challenges.

Other PhD students are working on similar topics.

Profile

The candidates should have a master’s degree (with distinction) in engineering, business engineering, computer science, informatics or applied mathematics and have an interest in practical applications of quantitative or mathematical techniques and operations research. Basic programming skills are required (at least). Speaking Dutch is recommended, and you should be able to write (and teach) in English.

Offer

You will become part of a dynamic international research group with other PhD students at KU Leuven, all working on applying operations research on (closely) related practical problems. Within the project, you will get the opportunity to collaborate with other PhD students.

• a four year fully funded doctoral research position at KU Leuven (or UHasselt or UAntwerp);
• 80%) scientific research in the field of operations research;
• 20%) educational tasks : seminars, workshops, thesis coaching, etc.;
• attending conferences, visiting international partners, etc.

KU Leuven Institute for Mobility

CIB old website

Interested?

The starting date of this research position is preferably October 1, 2025, but other starting dates can be discussed.

To apply, you should include a motivation letter, transcripts of your master’s degree, and your CV, and clearly indicate your skills in operations research, programming, and / or quantitative optimization.

Even if you graduate only in September 2025, you can apply.

Don't hesitate to apply as soon as possible!

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