Advanced Seminar Operations & Supply Chain Management: Food Supply Chain Management

What it is about

In the seminar you explore current research topics at the interface of food systems, operations management and operations research. You develop your own research question, model an operational problem of the Food Supply Chain, implement a solution and discuss the results. In the end you will be able to develop, implement and scientifically document quantitative models — as preparation for a master’s thesis in Operations & Supply Chain Management.

What you will be able to do

• Formulate focused research questions in the area of Food Supply Chain Management
• Research and classify current scientific literature
• Design mathematical models for problems in food provisioning
• Implement models, algorithms or solution procedures
• Interpret model results in context
• Evaluate methods in terms of effectiveness, efficiency, robustness and limitations
• Prepare a scientific seminar paper in formal correct form
• Convey research results in a presentable and debate-ready manner

What the module consists of

• Introduction lecturesIntroduction to topics and methodological foundations
• Method sessionsDeepening of research, modeling and implementation techniques
• Independent research projectWork on the individual seminar project with milestones
• Supervision/mentoringRegular feedback and discussion of progress
• Student presentationsPresentation and discussion of results in the seminar

Teaching method

• Introductory lecturesConveying the thematic framework and methodological foundations
• Method-oriented sessionsTraining in research technique, programming and modeling
• Independent project workEnables the handling of own research questions and implementation
• Supervision meetingsFeedback and guidance of the research process
• Presentations and discussionsTraining scientific presentation and critical discussion