City Logistics and Urban Freight Distribution 

 

This research line focuses on urban freight distribution and its associated challenges, including locational models, route and fleet optimization, and the management of warehouses and distribution centres. Topics may also explore last-mile delivery solutions, reverse logistics (green logistics), and the integration of innovative technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability in urban logistics systems. Additionally, projects can address the impact of urban logistics on transport networks, city planning, and environmental sustainability, contributing to the development of resilient and adaptable urban supply chains.

 

Business Logistics, Supply Chain and Transport Operations 

 

This research line welcomes doctoral projects focused on topics related to supply chain management, including the design and optimization of logistics systems in both urban and rural contexts, sustainable freight distribution, reverse logistics (green logistics), and transport systems. Other potential areas include production operations, lean and agile management strategies, information systems for logistics, and quality management. Research in this line seeks to address emerging challenges in logistics and supply chain management, contributing to the development of efficient, sustainable, and innovative practices across industries.

 

Healthcare Logistics 

 

This research line invites doctoral projects focused on improving healthcare logistics to address the unique challenges faced in both urban and rural contexts. Topics may include optimizing supply chains for medical supplies and equipment, designing efficient distribution models tailored to urban density and rural remoteness, and developing strategies for last-mile delivery in underserved areas. Research may also explore the role of emerging technologies such as IoT, AI and drones in enhancing healthcare logistics, as well as sustainable practices in reverse logistics and waste management. Projects under this line aim to contribute to more equitable, resilient and sustainable healthcare systems, improving accessibility and efficiency across diverse geographic and demographic settings.

Operations and Production Management 

 

This research line invites doctoral projects focused on optimizing production processes and operations management. Topics may include production and assembly line design and balancing, work time organization, integrated aggregate planning, and strategic capacity planning. Additionally, research may explore the implementation of Agile, Lean and Quick Response Manufacturing strategies to enhance efficiency, adaptability and sustainability in manufacturing and operations. Projects in this line aim to contribute to the development of innovative practices that address the evolving challenges in production systems, fostering competitiveness and operational excellence across industries.