How to Learn About Supply Chain Research From Around the World in a Few Hours

On January 22, 2014, some 120 master's students representing about 30 countries will gather at the MIT Media Lab, Cambridge, USA to present 70 to 80 supply chain thesis research projects. Also, nine faculty members will talk about the research they are engaged on.

Almost every thesis project has a corporate sponsor, so in addition to showcasing new research in the field, the Research Expo offers an exclusive view of the supply chain issues that enterprises are currently pursuing.

Each project will be presented on electronic posters created by the students for the event. The research topics cover virtually every facet of supply chain management. Here are some examples:

• Providing the fullest possible coverage to meet the needs of refugees across the world is a primary goal of a humanitarian organization. In order to meet this goal, the organization needs to improve the packaging and palletizing of certain relief items dispatched from its distribution centers in the Middle East. The research is assessing various challenges such as cost minimization, efficiency optimization, supplier collaboration, and space density/utilization.
• An apparel company aims to evaluate the effect on inventory levels of postponing a manufacturing operation. There are a number of factors to consider such as diverse product lines and reduced lead times, and the complexities of a global network of suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers. The research is helping the company to assess the postponement option.
• A fast-growing bottled water manufacturer in the US seeks to increase sales by distributing products directly to the stores of its retail customers. The benefits of a Direct-to-Store strategy include increased sales, direct access to consumers, faster replenishment cycles, and lower net distribution costs. The research addresses how to transform the existing supply chain to accommodate the strategy. 

The chance to view so many research projects from multiple countries in a few hours is truly unique, and a compelling opportunity for anyone from the business and academic communities with an interest in supply chain management.

Learn more about Research Expo and register here.

5th Annual MIT Global SCALE Network Supply Chain Student Research Expo and Networking Night