Cynthia Barnhart

Barnhart's research focuses on the development and application of optimization models and algorithms for the design, management and operation of transportation systems. Her work has been applied in various contexts and to various modes of transportation, including passenger and freight transportation. Barnhart's major contributions include: algorithms for solutions to previously intractable resource allocation and scheduling problems; models that integrate decision-making to yield significant improvements in system performance and profitability; approaches that incorporate uncertainty and provide solutions robust to unexpected events, allowing more reliable operations; approaches that answer policy questions related to operation of the aviation system in the United States.