RESEARCH PROFILE

Willem van Jaarsveld is Associate Professor in Stochastic Optimization and Machine Learning at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), in the OPAC group. His main research interest is stochastic optimization, using a diverse set of methodologies including Deep Reinforcement Learning, Stochastic Programming and Dynamic Programming. Applications areas include data-driven inventory control, supply chain management, and maintenance logistics. Apart from working towards scientific impact, he aims to make an impact in practice by working closely with several companies to facilitate the implementation of the methods he develops in practice. His research on optimization of spare parts inventories has been applied at various companies, including Fokker Services and Shell Global solutions. 

In the operations management field there is nothing which promotes theory building better than working with companies in order to overcome real practical challenges.

ACADEMIC BACKGROUND

Willem van Jaarsveld received MScs in Physics and in Econometrics and a PhD in Operations Research from Rotterdam Erasmus University in 2013. He spent a year of his PhD candidacy at Carnegie Mellon University. After graduation, we worked as an assistant professor at the Erasmus School of Economics, prior to joining the OPAC group in 2015.

Ancillary Activities

  • Softwareontwikkeling, Advies, Training, TwinOpt b.v. i.o.