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Prof Bahman Rostami-Tabar
No more applications being accepted
Competition Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)
About the Project
Forecasting improvements for better reproductive health and family planning operations in global health supply chains
The lead supervisor: Dr Bahman Rostami-Tabar ([Email Address Removed])
Cardiff Business School supported by the ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership for Wales (Wales DTP), invites applications for PhD study. These particular studentships, known as ‘collaborative studentships’, involve liaison with a non-academic organisation, often at many key stages of the research programme. They will commence in October 2022.
This project is in collaboration with United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Context/rationale
The ability of women to choose whether/when to become pregnant is of paramount importance to society. Yet, hundreds-of-millions of women in developing countries lack access to contraceptives [1].
Sound inventory/replenishment decisions of contraceptives rely upon accurate demand forecasts. Poor forecasts lead to either: (i) poor availability resulting in dropouts and unwanted pregnancies, with serious societal consequences such as poverty [1; 2]; or (ii) excessive stocks [2].
Producing good/effective forecasts is challenging [3; 4] because of: (i) lack of data availability and data quality issues [4]; (ii) complex demand and lead-time patterns [2; 5]; (iii) forecasting needs at multiple levels of geographical hierarchies [6; 7; 8]; and (iv) lack of an integrated inventory-forecasting framework [7; 9].
Suggested Aims
This project aims to make a contribution by: (i) creating an innovative non-parametric machine learning approach to accurately forecast in the presence of low-quality data (ii) strengthening the method by introducing a hierarchical structure of the problem; and (iv) linking forecasting to inventory optimisation through determination of the underlying loss function. There is scope for the student to further develop and refine research aims and research questions.
Scope
The research will be conducted within the supply chain of USAID, focusing on the context of Cote d’Ivoire. This constitutes an appropriate case because: (i) the DHS[a] report indicates that unmet needs for contraception among women aged 15-49 remain high, (ii) a new e-Logistics MIS[b] has recently been implemented facilitating data access and retrieval, (iii) USAID/Côte d’Ivoire are committed to improve access to contraceptives by developing and implementing technologies that empower decision-making. The anticipated solution is applicable to other developing countries given the similarity of data structures, data-quality related challenges, and relevant socio-economic factors. Applying the proposed solution will potentially reduce understocking/unmet needs, satisfy more demand, prevent waste, and improve reproductive health outcomes directly benefitting society. USAID will support dissemination of the results through internal learning events, encourage other countries to adopt the solution and share outcomes with donors in annual events.
Anticipated methods/design
In collaboration with the student and the partner, a relevant research design will be developed. This may include semi-structured interviews with representatives of USAID and relevant partners to understand the contraceptives supply chain challenges and document current processes, mathematical modelling, simulation, and (deductive) empirical research to address project aims. The inter-disciplinary nature of the project and the value added by the humanitarian context of application makes it timely and relevant.
References
Please see bottom of references section for further details.
Eligibility for the studentship
Applications are invited from exceptional candidates with a first class or strong upper second class honours degree, or appropriate Master’s degree. The University and ESRC Wales DTP value diversity and equality at all levels and we encourage applications from all sections of the community, irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief and sexual orientation. In line with our commitment to supporting and promoting equality, diversity and inclusion, and to increase recruitment of currently underrepresented groups, applications from Black British, Asian British, minority ethnicity British and mixed race British candidates are particularly encouraged and welcomed. We welcome applications for both full and part-time study, and studentships are available as either ‘1+3’ (i.e. one full time year of research training Masters followed by three years of full-time Doctoral study, or the part-time equivalent), or ‘+3’ (i.e. three years of full-time doctoral study or its part-time equivalent), depending on the needs of the applicant.
Please visit here for further information about the PhD Programme at Cardiff Business School.
Applications welcomed by 4th February 2022(1200 hours).
Please see references section for further details on how to apply. Applications should be made online, please visit the Business School website and click "apply now" Business Studies - Study - Cardiff University
Funding Notes
Cardiff University Business School, supported by the ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership for Wales (Wales DTP), invites applications for funded PhD study. This competition is open to UK, EU and International students. These particular studentships, known as ‘collaborative studentships’, involve liaison with a non-academic organisation, often at many key stages of the research programme. Studentships commence in October 2022.
Please read the project details for further information about eligibility and how to apply.
Applications close midday 4th February 2022.
This program is available in English only. To request information in Welsh, please contact the Postgraduate Recruitment Team ([Email Address Removed]).
Please read the project details for further information about eligibility and how to apply.
Applications close midday 4th February 2022.
This program is available in English only. To request information in Welsh, please contact the Postgraduate Recruitment Team ([Email Address Removed]).
References
HOW TO APPLY
These studentships are ‘collaborative’ awards. Applicants should take careful consideration of the working title and description of the project, and may wish to contact the named member of staff for a discussion prior to applying:
The Lead supervisor on this project is Dr Bahman Rostami-Tabar rostami-tabarb@cardiff.ac.uk
The Business and Management Pathway Lead is: Dr Nicole Koenig-Lewis Koenig-LewisN@cardiff.ac.uk
WHAT THE STUDENTSHIP WILL COVER
Studentship Awards commence in October 2022 and will cover your tuition fees as well as a maintenance grant (currently £15,609 p.a. for 2021/22 for full-time students, updated each year); and includes access to an additional Research Training Support Grant (RTSG), though an element of this latter fund may be ‘pooled’ and require separate applications from 2022 onwards. There are other opportunities and benefits available to studentship holders, including an overseas fieldwork allowance (if applicable), internship opportunities, overseas institutional visits and other small grants.
ELIGIBILITY
ESRC studentships are highly competitive, candidates should have an excellent academic background in the social sciences, holding a 1st or strong upper 2nd class degree; applications from those also holding a relevant research training Masters degree (or an equivalent background in research training) will be considered for a +3 award. Wales DTP studentships are available to both home and international (including EU and EEA) students. All applicants will be eligible for a full award consisting of a maintenance stipend and payment of tuition fees at the UK research organisation rate. Applicants must satisfy studentship eligibility requirements. For further details see the UKRI web site. Successful international student applicants will receive a fully-funded Wales DTP studentship and will not be charged the fees difference between the UK and international rate.
'1+3 OR +3?'
With exception of studentships in the Economics pathway, awards are available on either a 1+3 or +3 basis. A 1+3 studentship provides funding for four years (or part-time equivalent), completing a research training Masters in the 1st year, followed by 3 years research funding for a PhD. A +3 studentship provides funding for the three years PhD research study only (or part-time equivalent).
Please see the Cardiff Business School website for further detail on the programme structure and admission criteria: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/business-school/courses/postgraduate-research
ASSESSMENT
The closing deadline for applications is 12.00pm GMT on Friday 4th February 2022. Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview, which are expected to take place in late February/early March 2022. After interview, a final short-list of applicants will be put forward to a Panel convened by the ESRC Wales DTP Management Group at which final decisions with regard to studentship awards will be made. In most cases successful applicants can expect to hear by early April 2022.
HOW TO APPLY
A completed application form for admission to doctoral study in Cardiff Business School by the deadline of 12:00pm GMT on 4 February 2022. Incomplete applications or applications received after this specified time will not be accepted.
In the funding section, please select “I will be applying for a scholarship/grant” and “ESRC Wales Doctoral Training Partnership”.
The application must contain the following documents:
1. Covering letter: Please address to Dr Nicole Koenig-Lewis. The covering letter must name the collaborative studentship being applied for. It must set out your reasons and motivation for applying to study at Cardiff University, and the Business and Management Pathway; your understanding, and expectations of doctoral study; and your academic interests generally, and particularly how these relate to the description of the project supplied. The covering letter should be no more than two pages. Please also specify whether you wish to apply on a +3 or 1+3 basis. (Upload to ‘Personal Statement’ section)
2. Academic / Professional Qualifications: Where appropriate, this should also include proof of English Language Competency (7.0 IELTS minimum).
3. References: All applications require two academic references to be submitted in support. Candidates must approach referees themselves and include the references with their application.
4. Curriculum Vitae: This should be no longer than two pages. (Upload to ‘Professional Experience’ section).
5. Research Proposal: For collaborative studentships, the proposal should build directly on the outline description that has been supplied. The proposal should be up to a maximum of 1000 words, not including bibliographic references. We suggest that you use the following five headings in your research proposal:
• Your reflections on the title, aims and purpose of the research;
• An overview of some key research literature relevant to the study;
• Your proposals for developing the design and methods of the study;
• A description of potential outcomes of the project for understanding, knowledge, policy and practice (as appropriate to the topic);
• Bibliographic references
This program is available in English only. To request information in Welsh, please contact the Postgraduate Recruitment Team (postgradmarketing@cardiff.ac.uk).
Mae'r rhaglen hon ar gael drwy gyfrwng y Saesneg yn unig. I wneud cais am wybodaeth yn Gymraeg, cysylltwch â'r Tîm Recriwtio Ôl-raddedigion (postgradmarketing@caerdydd.ac.uk)
References
[1]. Sedgh, G., Ashford, L., & Hussain, R. (2016). Unmet Need for Contraception in Developing Countries: Examining Women’s Reasons for Not Using a Method. Guttmacher Institute, New York. New York NY: The Alan Guttmacher Institute.
[2]. Mukasa, B., Ali, M., Farron, M. and Van de Weerdt, R. (2017). Contraception supply chain challenges: a review of evidence from low-and middle-income countries. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care, 22(5), 384-390.
[3]. Family Planning Logistics Management (FPLM) (2000). Contraceptive Forecasting Handbook for Family Planning and HIV/AIDS Prevention Programs. Arlington, Va.: FPLM/John Snow, Inc., for the U.S. Agency for International Development.
[4]. De-Arteaga, M., Herlands, W., Neill, D. B. and Dubrawski, A. (2018). Machine learning for the developing world. ACM Transactions on Management Information Systems (TMIS), 9(2), 1-14.
[5]. Van der Laan, E., van Dalen, J., Rohrmoser, M. and Simpson, R. (2016). Demand forecasting and order planning for humanitarian logistics: an empirical assessment. Journal of Operations Management, 45, 114-122.
[6]. Mircetic, D., Rostami-Tabar, B., Nikolicic, S. and Maslaric, M. (2021). Forecasting hierarchical time series in supply chains: an empirical investigation. International Journal of Production Research, in press.
[7]. Altay, N. and Narayanan, A. (2020). Forecasting in humanitarian operations: literature review and research needs. International Journal of Forecasting, in press.
[8]. Rostami-Tabar, B., Babai, M. Z., Ducq, Y. and Syntetos, A. (2015). Non-stationary demand forecasting by cross-sectional aggregation. International Journal of Production Economics, 170, 297-309.
[9]. Syntetos, A. A., Boylan, J. E., & Disney, S. M. (2009). Forecasting for inventory planning: a 50-year review. Journal of the Operational Research Society, 60(1), S149-S160.
[a] https://dhsprogram.com/methodology/survey/survey-display-507.cfm
[b] https://openlmis.org/implementation_region/cote-divoire/
These studentships are ‘collaborative’ awards. Applicants should take careful consideration of the working title and description of the project, and may wish to contact the named member of staff for a discussion prior to applying:
The Lead supervisor on this project is Dr Bahman Rostami-Tabar rostami-tabarb@cardiff.ac.uk
The Business and Management Pathway Lead is: Dr Nicole Koenig-Lewis Koenig-LewisN@cardiff.ac.uk
WHAT THE STUDENTSHIP WILL COVER
Studentship Awards commence in October 2022 and will cover your tuition fees as well as a maintenance grant (currently £15,609 p.a. for 2021/22 for full-time students, updated each year); and includes access to an additional Research Training Support Grant (RTSG), though an element of this latter fund may be ‘pooled’ and require separate applications from 2022 onwards. There are other opportunities and benefits available to studentship holders, including an overseas fieldwork allowance (if applicable), internship opportunities, overseas institutional visits and other small grants.
ELIGIBILITY
ESRC studentships are highly competitive, candidates should have an excellent academic background in the social sciences, holding a 1st or strong upper 2nd class degree; applications from those also holding a relevant research training Masters degree (or an equivalent background in research training) will be considered for a +3 award. Wales DTP studentships are available to both home and international (including EU and EEA) students. All applicants will be eligible for a full award consisting of a maintenance stipend and payment of tuition fees at the UK research organisation rate. Applicants must satisfy studentship eligibility requirements. For further details see the UKRI web site. Successful international student applicants will receive a fully-funded Wales DTP studentship and will not be charged the fees difference between the UK and international rate.
'1+3 OR +3?'
With exception of studentships in the Economics pathway, awards are available on either a 1+3 or +3 basis. A 1+3 studentship provides funding for four years (or part-time equivalent), completing a research training Masters in the 1st year, followed by 3 years research funding for a PhD. A +3 studentship provides funding for the three years PhD research study only (or part-time equivalent).
Please see the Cardiff Business School website for further detail on the programme structure and admission criteria: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/business-school/courses/postgraduate-research
ASSESSMENT
The closing deadline for applications is 12.00pm GMT on Friday 4th February 2022. Short-listed applicants will be invited to interview, which are expected to take place in late February/early March 2022. After interview, a final short-list of applicants will be put forward to a Panel convened by the ESRC Wales DTP Management Group at which final decisions with regard to studentship awards will be made. In most cases successful applicants can expect to hear by early April 2022.
HOW TO APPLY
A completed application form for admission to doctoral study in Cardiff Business School by the deadline of 12:00pm GMT on 4 February 2022. Incomplete applications or applications received after this specified time will not be accepted.
In the funding section, please select “I will be applying for a scholarship/grant” and “ESRC Wales Doctoral Training Partnership”.
The application must contain the following documents:
1. Covering letter: Please address to Dr Nicole Koenig-Lewis. The covering letter must name the collaborative studentship being applied for. It must set out your reasons and motivation for applying to study at Cardiff University, and the Business and Management Pathway; your understanding, and expectations of doctoral study; and your academic interests generally, and particularly how these relate to the description of the project supplied. The covering letter should be no more than two pages. Please also specify whether you wish to apply on a +3 or 1+3 basis. (Upload to ‘Personal Statement’ section)
2. Academic / Professional Qualifications: Where appropriate, this should also include proof of English Language Competency (7.0 IELTS minimum).
3. References: All applications require two academic references to be submitted in support. Candidates must approach referees themselves and include the references with their application.
4. Curriculum Vitae: This should be no longer than two pages. (Upload to ‘Professional Experience’ section).
5. Research Proposal: For collaborative studentships, the proposal should build directly on the outline description that has been supplied. The proposal should be up to a maximum of 1000 words, not including bibliographic references. We suggest that you use the following five headings in your research proposal:
• Your reflections on the title, aims and purpose of the research;
• An overview of some key research literature relevant to the study;
• Your proposals for developing the design and methods of the study;
• A description of potential outcomes of the project for understanding, knowledge, policy and practice (as appropriate to the topic);
• Bibliographic references
This program is available in English only. To request information in Welsh, please contact the Postgraduate Recruitment Team (postgradmarketing@cardiff.ac.uk).
Mae'r rhaglen hon ar gael drwy gyfrwng y Saesneg yn unig. I wneud cais am wybodaeth yn Gymraeg, cysylltwch â'r Tîm Recriwtio Ôl-raddedigion (postgradmarketing@caerdydd.ac.uk)
References
[1]. Sedgh, G., Ashford, L., & Hussain, R. (2016). Unmet Need for Contraception in Developing Countries: Examining Women’s Reasons for Not Using a Method. Guttmacher Institute, New York. New York NY: The Alan Guttmacher Institute.
[2]. Mukasa, B., Ali, M., Farron, M. and Van de Weerdt, R. (2017). Contraception supply chain challenges: a review of evidence from low-and middle-income countries. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care, 22(5), 384-390.
[3]. Family Planning Logistics Management (FPLM) (2000). Contraceptive Forecasting Handbook for Family Planning and HIV/AIDS Prevention Programs. Arlington, Va.: FPLM/John Snow, Inc., for the U.S. Agency for International Development.
[4]. De-Arteaga, M., Herlands, W., Neill, D. B. and Dubrawski, A. (2018). Machine learning for the developing world. ACM Transactions on Management Information Systems (TMIS), 9(2), 1-14.
[5]. Van der Laan, E., van Dalen, J., Rohrmoser, M. and Simpson, R. (2016). Demand forecasting and order planning for humanitarian logistics: an empirical assessment. Journal of Operations Management, 45, 114-122.
[6]. Mircetic, D., Rostami-Tabar, B., Nikolicic, S. and Maslaric, M. (2021). Forecasting hierarchical time series in supply chains: an empirical investigation. International Journal of Production Research, in press.
[7]. Altay, N. and Narayanan, A. (2020). Forecasting in humanitarian operations: literature review and research needs. International Journal of Forecasting, in press.
[8]. Rostami-Tabar, B., Babai, M. Z., Ducq, Y. and Syntetos, A. (2015). Non-stationary demand forecasting by cross-sectional aggregation. International Journal of Production Economics, 170, 297-309.
[9]. Syntetos, A. A., Boylan, J. E., & Disney, S. M. (2009). Forecasting for inventory planning: a 50-year review. Journal of the Operational Research Society, 60(1), S149-S160.
[a] https://dhsprogram.com/methodology/survey/survey-display-507.cfm
[b] https://openlmis.org/implementation_region/cote-divoire/
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