In this seminar we will discuss selected topics in discrete optimization. The main focus is on mostly recent research papers in the field of Combinatorial Optimization.
Objective
The goal of the seminar is twofold. First, we aim at improving students' presentation and communication skills. In particular, students are to present a research paper to their peers and the instructors in a clear and understandable way. Second, students learn a selection of recent cutting-edge approaches in the field of Combinatorial Optimization by attending the other students' talks. A very active participation in the seminar helps students to build up the necessary skills for parsing and digesting advanced technical texts on a significantly higher complexity level than usual textbooks.
A key goal is that students prepare their presentations in a concise and accessible way to make sure that other participants get a clear idea of the presented results and techniques.
Students intending to do a project in optimization are strongly encouraged to participate.
Content
The selected topics will cover various classical and modern results in Combinatorial Optimization.
Contrary to prior years, a very significant component of the seminar will be interactive discussions where active participation of the students is required.
Literature
The learning material will be in the form of scientific papers.
Prerequisites / Notice
Requirements: We expect students to have a thorough understanding of topics covered in the course "Linear & Combinatorial Optimization".