Ports, logistics and operations
Improving port performance, supply chain efficiency, and maritime transport planning.
The Centre for Supply Chain Research (CSCR) is a leading hub tackling the complex challenges of modern logistics, supply chains, and maritime transport. By combining advanced analytics, optimisation, and innovative modelling with practical engagement across industry and policy, the Centre aims to boost business performance, enhance competitiveness, and support sustainable operations.
Led by Director Professor Jason Choi and Co-Directors Professor Tolga Bektas, Professor Hugo Lam, Professor Andrew Lyons, and Professor Dongping Song, the Centre applies data analytics, artificial intelligence, simulation, and optimisation to develop practical, high-impact solutions for supply chain, logistics, and maritime transport, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental performance.
Key research areas
- Optimising supply chain, logistics, and transportation systems using data-driven and simulation-based methods, particularly in maritime transport
- Applying mathematical modelling and optimisation to freight transportation, distribution planning, and supply chain networks, with emphasis on environmental sustainability.
Spotlight collaborations
Supply chain collaboration with Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Three collaborative projects with Shanghai Jiao Tong University focus on sustainable maritime shipping, greener urban freight, and circular supply chains in textiles. The initiative combines multidisciplinary research, workshops, and exchanges to advance sustainable logistics, green energy transition, and digital solutions.
See examples below from the broader team of Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM) experts, beyond the University’s CSCR.
Green shipping corridor – Belfast to Liverpool (Innovate UK)
Led by Dr Cagatay Iris, this project identifies 29 pilot initiatives to establish an international standard green shipping corridor. Working with British and Northern Irish universities, industry partners, and innovation agencies, the research maps a practical roadmap for rapidly implementing low-carbon sailings between Liverpool and Belfast. Findings are summarised in the Liverpool-Belfast Green Shipping Corridor (2024) report, outlining the technical and policy steps needed for a sustainable maritime route.
Integrated decarbonisation and resilient logistics for next-generation ports
This initiative focuses on integrating low-carbon transport, smart logistics, and sustainable water-based freight solutions into a cohesive decarbonisation strategy. Supported by nine innovative projects funded through a partnership with McMaster University, Canada, the work strengthens transatlantic collaboration and provides opportunities for early-career researchers in port cities.