AI and analytics are becoming increasingly influential in forecasting, procurement, inventory management, logistics and risk monitoring.
But supply chain decisions are rarely made by algorithms alone. Managers still interpret outputs, override recommendations, negotiate trade‑offs and decide when to trust or challenge data‑driven systems. This project explores the continuing role of human judgment in digitally enabled operations and supply chains.
The PhD would examine how managers engage with AI‑based or data‑driven decision tools in practice. It could explore questions such as: What makes managers trust or distrust algorithmic recommendations? How do experience, organisational culture, accountability and uncertainty shape the use of analytics? When do digital tools improve decision quality, and when do they create resistance, overreliance or unintended consequences? The project could focus on sectors where data use is growing quickly and could use interviews, case studies, observational work or mixed methods.
By studying the interaction between technology and human interpretation, the project would contribute to debates on responsible AI, managerial cognition and the future of work in operations and supply chains. It would appeal to applicants interested in digital transformation, decision‑making and the social side of technology adoption.
Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. The UK Government is also offering Doctoral Student Loans for eligible students, and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.
