SWORDS is a supportive community for those interested in operational research in South Wales. We aim to facilitate discussions and exchange ideas, while also building strong connections for operational researchers.

We put on meetings, works visits and other events, which are generally free admission and open to all, giving members the freedom to invite clients and others outside OR who are interested in the subject.

Previous Events:

Healthcare in OR event: 17th October 

Prof. Brian Denton (University of Michigan) gave a fascinating talk on 'Operational Research in Healthcare: Leveraging Data-Driven Mathematical Models to Improve Public Health'. Examples included how integer programming can be used to optimise radiation treatment such that damage to healthy tissue is minimised; how a graph model can be used to create chains of kidney donors and recipients; and how OR can be used to ensure the optimal number of vaccines are purchased.

About 80 people attended including practitioners, academics and students and a healthy amount of pizza was consumed after the event. 

Committee details

Future Events:

Joint event with WORDS

Date: Tuesday 6th February 2024 (from 5:45pm)

Talk by Professor Rachel Hilliam

Date: Tuesday 5th March 2024 (from 5:45pm)