Ph.D. Position in Stochastic Optimization: Texas Tech University invites highly motivated and qualified candidates to apply for a fully funded Ph.D. position starting Fall 2026 in the Department of Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering (IMSE). Under the supervision of Dr. Man Yiu (Tim) Tsang, the selected candidate will work on cutting-edge research topics in data-driven stochastic optimization, distributionally robust optimization, and large-scale decomposition algorithms, with applications in finance, healthcare, and transportation systems.
Department of Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering (IMSE)
Texas Tech University, USA
Summary Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Ph.D. Opening in Data-Driven Stochastic Optimization |
| Advisor | Dr. Man Yiu (Tim) Tsang |
| Designation | Full-time Ph.D. Student |
| Department | Industrial, Manufacturing & Systems Engineering (IMSE) |
| University | Texas Tech University |
| Location | Lubbock, Texas, USA |
| Start Date | Fall 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | Review begins December 15, 2025 (open until filled) |
Designation
Ph.D. Researcher / Graduate Research Assistant
Department of IMSE, Texas Tech University
Research Area
- Data-Driven Stochastic Optimization
- (Distributionally) Robust Optimization
- Decomposition Algorithms
- Applications in:
- Financial Risk Management
- Healthcare Operations
- Transportation Systems
Location
Texas Tech University,
Department of Industrial, Manufacturing, and Systems Engineering (IMSE),
Lubbock, Texas, USA.
Eligibility / Qualification
Required
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:
- Operations Research
- Industrial Engineering
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Or a related field
- Strong background in mathematics and/or statistics
- Excellent analytical and critical-thinking skills
- Ability to work with abstract concepts and mathematical proofs
- Familiarity with programming languages/optimization tools such as:
- MATLAB, Python, C++,
- AMPL, Gurobi, CPLEX, etc.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills in English
Preferred
- Prior coursework/training in:
- Mathematical Programming
- Stochastic Optimization
- Probability Theory
- Statistical Inference
- Real Analysis
- Research or project experience related to optimization under uncertainty
- Publications in journals or conference proceedings
Job Description
The selected Ph.D. candidate will:
- Conduct research in data-driven stochastic and robust optimization
- Develop and analyze mathematical models for real-world challenges
- Design and implement decomposition algorithms and optimization methods
- Contribute to interdisciplinary applications in finance, healthcare, and transportation
- Prepare research publications, technical reports, and conference papers
- Collaborate with Dr. Tsang and the research group on advanced optimization topics
- Participate in academic activities, seminars, and departmental responsibilities
How to Apply
Send an email to Dr. Man Yiu (Tim) Tsang at man-yiu.tsang@ttu.edu with the subject line:
“[Fall 26 Ph.D. Application] Your Name”
Include the following documents in a single PDF or separate attachments:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic Transcript(s)
- Statement of Purpose, detailing:
- Research interests
- Prior experience
- Motivation for pursuing a Ph.D.
- Why the applicant wants to join this research group
- Samples of Publications or Manuscripts (if available)
Application Review Begins: December 15, 2025
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
