Summary
A central challenge in solving real-world optimisation problems is the lack of a systematic process. Existing approaches largely either adjust the problem representation to match a specific algorithm or customise an algorithm to fit the problem. However, their results tend to remain problem-or even instance-specific. This hinders progress in algorithm research because the learnings from applications cannot be generalised.
During this semester programme, we aim to bring together researchers and industry practitioners with experience on real-world problems. Together, we will create a systematic overview of practically used tailoring processes for solving optimisation problems and generalise them.
This semester programme will be organized on:
- The Kick-off meeting: 14-16 January 2026
- Wrap-up meeting: 21-22 May 2026
Organizing Team:
- Vanessa Volz (CWI),
- Laurens Bliek (TU Eindhoven),
- Anton Bouter (CWI),
- Mike Preuss (Leiden University),
- Elena Raponi (Leiden University),
- Dennis Soemers (Maastricht University).
