Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - Operational Research

Operational Research is a specialised research area within the Mathematics postgraduate research programmes (PhD), focusing on the development and application of analytical and mathematical methods to solve complex real-world problems. The research group has a strong track record in both theoretical advancements and practical applications across a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, public health, finance, transportation, environmental management, manufacturing, and information security.

The programme is supported by a vibrant research community comprising academic staff and research students, with regular seminar series and collaborative events that encourage knowledge exchange and professional engagement. Students benefit from an active research environment that includes joint activities with related disciplines, as well as participation in regional research networks and discussion forums.

A key strength of the programme lies in its interdisciplinary collaborations, with strong links to fields such as computer science, medicine, social sciences, earth sciences, and business. Research areas include data science, machine learning, health service modelling, social network analysis, and risk modelling. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to apply operational research techniques to diverse and impactful challenges, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, and public policy.