Under FERSC, we propose a series of activities organized around three research thrusts:
Freight System of Systems (RT1): RT1 addresses freight as a system and treats freight as part of the larger supply chain system by developing system-level methodologies for optimal performance in the short, medium, and long runs.
Stakeholder Behavior Research (RT2): RT2 recognizes that the behavior of shippers and other stakeholders is critical to freight movement, and it studies behavioral interactions between freight and the supply chain through shipper behavior, considering the best interests of shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders and how the behavioral interactions can be guided and shaped from the system perspective.
Freight Innovations for Supply Chain (RT3): RT3 aims to exploit the maximum potential technological innovations can achieve in helping freight and supply chains, particularly for under-represented populations and under-served regions.
FERSC’s Three Research Thrusts
Primary IIJA Research Priority: Improving Mobility of People & Goods
| FERSC Research Thrust | Aligned DOT Strategic Goals | Aligned Non-Exclusive Areas |
| RT1: System of Systems | Economic Strength and Global Competitiveness Transformation Sustainability | Multimodal System Planning Freight/Logistics Mobility Innovation Rural Transportation Infrastructure Operation: Last/First-Mile delivery Supply Chain: Coordination Resilience |
| RT2: Stakeholder Behavior Study | Economic Strength and Global Competitiveness Equity | Modal Shift Supply Chain: Coordination Demand Management |
| RT3: Technological Innovations | Transformation Equity | Automated and Connected Vehicles Operations: First/Last Mile Delivery Rural Transportation Infrastructure |
