Karen Smilowitz | MEM | Northwestern University

Karen Smilowitz

Master of Engineering Management

Course: IEMS 486 - Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Dr. Smilowitz studies the opportunities and challenges of introducing operational flexibility in distribution systems. With more flexibility, it is possible to significantly improve system efficiency (greater utilization of employees and equipment, reduction in empty miles traveled, etc.). At the same time, increasing flexibility expands the set of operational choices (possible vehicle routes, load assignments, etc.) which complicates already difficult routing and scheduling problems. Dr. Smilowitz has developed innovative modeling and solution techniques for these complex transportation systems. She has worked in both commercial applications (e.g., package delivery networks, intermodal drayage) and non-profit applications (e.g., interlibrary loan delivery, emergency supply distribution).

Professor Simlowitz's honors and awards include the Sloan Industry Studies Fellowship (2005), National Science Foundation CAREER Award recipient (2004-2009), National Academy of Engineering Frontiers of Engineering Participant (2004), and Searle Junior Faculty Fellow, Northwestern University (2003-2004).

Education:
Ph.D., Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California - Berkeley
M.S., Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of California - Berkeley
B.S.E., Civil Engineering and Operations Research, Princeton University

Publications:

P. Francis, K. Smilowitz and M. Tzur, "Flexibility and Complexity in Periodic Distribution Problems," Naval Research Logistics, forthcoming, 2007.

K. Smilowitz and C. Daganzo, "Cost Modeling and Design Techniques for Integrated Package Distribution Systems," Networks, forthcoming, 2007.

P. Francis, K. Smilowitz and M. Tzur, "The Period Vehicle Routing Problem with Service Choice," Transportation Science, Volume 40, Number 4, pp. 439-45

K. Smilowitz. 2006. "Multi-Resource Routing with Flexible Tasks: An Application in Drayage Operations," IIE Transactions, Volume 38, Number 7, June 2006, pp. 577 - 590.