July 1, 2024

The Middle Mile Products and Technology Call for Proposals through the UW + Amazon Science Hub has extended the deadline for 1-page abstracts to Friday, July 5th at 11:59pm. As a reminder, this CFP is a 2-step application, with one-page abstracts due July 5th, and full proposals due July 22nd at 11:59pm. Please read more information regarding this call below and attached.

UW + Amazon Science Hub & Middle Mile Products and Technology 2024 Call For Proposals

1-page abstract due: July 5 at 11:59 pm PT

Abstract submission link: https://amazonexteu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2tyObeRZmctyVlI

Shortlist/Invitation to submit full proposal notification: by July 15

Full Submission Deadline: July 22 at 11:59 pm PT

Application link: Will be provided to PIs for shortlisted proposals

Questions or to schedule office hours: Elisabeth Zimowski eez@amazon.com

Overview: Our goal is to develop and operate the world’s largest and most efficient transportation and delivery network (services or products). To do this, we support research aimed at the development and implementation of mathematical optimization, Generative AI and machine learning algorithms, applications and strategic initiatives focused on the logistics and delivery of commerce, healthcare, and efficient transportation services across all modes including air, ground, rail and maritime. We welcome proposals related to the following broad research areas in order to accelerate progress in state-of-the-art transportation network design and operations, pricing, logistics and routing algorithms to guide the transportation industry of the future.

Submissions must fit within one of our four distinct research areas:

1) Reducing the cost to serve. Integrated network design and operations using Gen AI and optimization (all tearing down the traditional silos and thinking of new ways to deliver services and products)

2) Smart pricing for both supply and demand sides of the marketplace using techniques like Gen AI and transfer learning (including forecasting)

3) Optimization of sortation processes – “Under the Roof” (UTR) process optimization

4) Use of Gen AI for proactive safety assessment and incident prevention

Step I: Submit a 1-page abstract for initial review by July 5. Abstracts will be reviewed on a rolling basis up to the deadline and authors have the option of scheduling office hours with an Amazon scientist. Amazon will reach out to a shortlist of submissions to ask for a full proposal submission by July 15.

Step II: If selected, Submit full proposal by July 22. Proposal Requirements: Proposals should be prepared according to the standard proposal template (see Appendix) and should clearly indicate one of the above research areas.