Research

Research

SERMOS Lab’s research focuses on using data science, complex systems modeling, and risk assessment to address challenging problems in the fields of transportation and resilience. In particular, we aim to develop new methods, systems, and algorithms to create resilient future transportation systems that promote higher efficiency and effectiveness, boost mobility and accessibility, reduce congestion and greenhouse emissions, and become more resilient after adverse events such as natural and man-made hazards.

 

 

Funders

 
RESEARCH THEME 1: AI-POWERED COMMUNITY RESILIENCE MODELING

Our lab is developing AI-powered decision-support systems to assist in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. These decision-support systems will help stakeholders gain useful information for planning and real-time decision-making. 

Fig. 1

 
RESEARCH THEME 2: Micromobility as a last-mile enhancement to public transit

Our lab is developing a decision-support system for planning, designing, operating, and managing micromobility in U.S. cities. This tool is a web-based platform that 1) can crowdsource information from residents on traffic incidents such as crashes and near-misses; and 2) can help cities manage e-scooter parking and monitor equity policy compliance.

 
RESEARCH THEME 3: FROM FIXED-ROUTE TO MOBILITY-ON-DEMAND TRANSIT SYSTEMS
Powered by the advances in information and communication technology, on-demand ride services fill travelers’ needs in real time, providing consumers with convenience, flexibility, and cost-savings. While some may concern that privately-operated on-demand ride services may siphon off transit users, we see great potential for them to complement public transit. We envision future public transit to be integrated systems with fixed-route services running along major corridors and ridesourcing servicing lower-density areas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This change can lead to:

  • 20% reduction in operating cost
  • A slight increase in ridership