News

✔️ IRES 2026 Participants Continue Research Progress in Week 4:

Week 4 of the IRES 2026 program saw participants make significant progress on their research projects while continuing to collaborate with faculty mentors and international research teams in Hamburg. Students refined their project ideas, explored advanced analytical methods, and gained deeper insights into solving real-world challenges in engineering, logistics, and operations research.

In addition to their research activities, participants engaged in professional development and reflected on their international research experience, strengthening both their technical knowledge and global perspectives. The program continues to provide valuable opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and cultural exchange.

Read more about Week 4:

• Leading a Horse to Water

• IRES in Hamburg – Week 4 by Evelyn Ray

✔️ IRES 2026 Participants Advance Their Research in Weeks 2 and 3:

Weeks 2 and 3 of the IRES 2026 program marked significant progress as participants continued their collaborative research in Hamburg, Germany. Students worked closely with faculty mentors to develop Digital Twin solutions for real-world challenges in port logistics and urban transportation, applying optimization, data analytics, and simulation techniques to their projects.

Beyond the research, participants visited leading organizations, explored innovative technologies, and gained valuable insight into how digital solutions are transforming transportation and logistics systems. The experience also included cultural activities and visits to Amsterdam, providing students with a broader perspective on international collaboration and research.

As the program continues, participants are strengthening their technical skills, expanding their global networks, and contributing to innovative solutions for complex engineering and operations research problems.

• Read more about Kelly Gorman's first week HERE. 

• Read more about Hasini Balasuriya's experience HERE.

• Read more about Avi Shekhar's first week HERE.

• View the Week 2 & 3 PHOTO GALLERY.

✔️ IRES 2026 Participants Begin Their Research Experience in Hamburg:

The IRES 2026 program officially began with an exciting first week in Hamburg, Germany. Participants were welcomed by faculty mentors, introduced to their research projects, and had the opportunity to connect with fellow students while learning about the program's goals and expectations.

In addition to research activities, students explored Hamburg's rich culture and visited key locations that provide valuable context for their summer research. The first week laid a strong foundation for collaboration, innovation, and an enriching international research experience.

• Read more about Kelly Gorman's first week HERE. 

• Read more about Steven Fung's experience HERE.

• Read more about Evelyn Ray's first week HERE.

• View the Week 1 PHOTO GALLERY.

✔️ The 2026 participants had a great Welcome Orientation at the University of Louisville. Check out the pictures.

✔️Congratulations to the following students selected to participate in the 2026 cohort:

• • • Hasini Balasuriya — University of Louisville, KY

    • Rachel Black — Drury University, MO

    • Xinrui Chen — William and Mary, VA

    • Steven Fung — University of Maryland, College Park, MD

    • Kelly Gorman — Case Western Reserve University, OH

    • Evelyn Ray — Smith College, MA

    • Avi Shekhar — University of Maryland, College Park, MD

✔️Applications for Summer 2026 are now closed. Application for Summer 2027 will open in September 2026.