Master Thesis in Large-Scale Optimization for Supply Chain Logistics

Safe Intelligence — this forms the core brand of the Fraunhofer Institute for Cognitive Systems IKS . Connected cognitive systems drive innovation in many sectors, including mobility, healthcare, and automation in industry. Disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing play a key role here. Fraunhofer IKS is conducting research to ensure that these applications are reliable and verifiably safe. We consider resilience and intelligence to be part of the same process.

Be part of change

In this master thesis, you will develop a modular optimization framework for a real-world Inventory Routing Problem. This optimization problem combines aspects of inventory management, delivery scheduling, and routing (see, e.g., arXiv:2209.00412). You will start by reviewing the relevant literature and existing solution approaches, then formalize the use case, its scale, constraints, and available data. Building on this, you will design and implement a prototypical end-to-end system. In particular, you will research different decomposition strategies (e.g., temporal, spatial, and mathematical) and implement a modular solution using classical optimization techniques, quantum-inspired methods, and/or AI techniques. The orchestration of the full solution can be managed, e.g., by an agentic component.

What you contribute

• Programming skills, preferably Python, and good software engineering practices
• Linux OS, Git-based version control
• Knowledge in combinatorial optimization
• Experience in implementing machine learning solutions (in particular reinforcement learning)
• Experience with one or more of the following is a plus:
  • Common optimization libraries (e.g., Gurobi, CPLEX, HiGHS)
  • Machine learning libraries (pytorch, tensorflow)
  • Working with real-world data (cleaning, handling missing data, robustness)
• Enrollment in a German university, preferably in Munich or surrounding area
• Especially suitable for students of M.Sc. Computer science, Cognition, Intelligence, M.Sc. Data Engineering, M.Sc Mathematics and related subjects

What we offer

• Approachable supervisors, integration into a dynamic team with innovative task areas
• Flexible working style (including a workplace located at our new institute building in Garching)
• Insights into applied science practices and ways of working with Fraunhofer
• Practical approach to your studies

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply with your motivation letter, CV and your current transcript now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Technical questions will be answered gladly by
Benedikt Poggel, [email protected]
If you have further questions, please contact our colleagues from HR via eMail: [email protected]

Fraunhofer Institute for Cognitive Systems IKS

Requisition Number: 83607Application Deadline: