Operations research (OR) and (its sister field, Operations Management (OM)) is a multidisciplinary discipline that uses mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and optimization techniques to design, analyze, and optimize complex systems and processes. The goal is to positively impact society, businesses, and organizations.
Researchers use mathematical tools to study a wide range of problems, like
- how to design sustainable supply chains,
- how to streamline urban planning processes like building a speed-bump,
- how to avoid unintentional discrimination in algorithmic decision-making and AI systems
- how to “regreen” deforested lands,
- and many, many, more.
Indeed, most of our faculty at USC Marshall have undergraduate degrees in other fields — mathematics, computer science, economics, statistics — but gravitated towards OR and OM to work on technically challenging problems whose solution would make not only theoretical but also tangible, real-world impact. With the rise of AI and data science, OR and OM remain an exciting career path for mathematically inclined individuals to apply their skills to make a meaningful impact on society.
Sound exciting? Check out some projects from Past Participants and Apply Now!