Post-Doctoral Associate

Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering
Postdoctoral Associate Position in Data-Driven Optimization

The Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities invites applications to fill one postdoctoral associate position, under the supervision of
Professor Archis Ghate. The appointment will begin as soon as possible in calendar year 2025 but no later than Fall 2025. The initial appointment will be for one year with the possibility of extension to another year based on mutual consent, but depending on availability of funds and an annual performance review.

The postdoctoral associate will conduct research in the broad area of data-driven optimization, with particular emphasis on Markov Decision Processes (MDPs) and Partially Observable Markov Decision Processes (POMDPs). The postdoctoral associate will study sequential decision models in contexts such as robust, distributionally robust, and percentile optimization. Some of the work may belong to the areas of model-based or model-free Reinforcement Learning.

Duties may include:
50% - Developing models and algorithms; carrying out theoretical analyses; writing computer code and conducting computational experiments;
20% - Collecting data, generating simulated data, analyzing data, and cleaning/managing data;
20% - Drafting manuscripts for submission to journals and conferences; giving research presentations at conferences; and
10% - Collaborating on proposals for submission to funding agencies; engaging with partners, collaborators, students, and faculty from within and outside the University of Minnesota.

Opportunities for teaching may also emerge, depending on the availability of funds and other departmental considerations.

Required Qualifications
Prior to the start date, applicants must have earned a Ph.D. in Engineering, Operations Research, Operations Management, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Economics, or a related discipline. Applicants should have the potential to conduct research that can be published in top-tier journals and conferences.
Applicants should have a demonstrated interest and expertise in mathematical models, theory, and algorithms for data-driven optimization problems.
Expertise in programming languages such as Python and/or R and relevant software packages therein is a must.

Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data analytics methods is a plus.
Interest in applications such as healthcare and medical decision making, transportation and logistics, supply chains and service operations, or energy systems and the environment would be desirable.

The Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering is within the College of Science and Engineering, which is a highly interdisciplinary college of engineering, physical sciences, and mathematics. Information about current research activities of department faculty can be found at http://isye.umn.edu/faculty/.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

Applicants should submit a one-page cover letter, a curriculum vitae, up to two articles/technical reports representative of their work, unofficial undergraduate and graduate transcripts, and a statement of research interests. They should also provide the names and contact information for three references.

Applications received by December 15, 2024 will receive full consideration. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).