José Firmino Aguilar Madeira

Coordinator Professor at ADM/ISEL/IPL | Integrated Researcher at IDMEC/IST/ULisboa | Optimization & Decision Sciences

Doctoral Student Supervision

  1. Degree: PhD in Sustainable Energy Systems
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Tiago José Rosário Lucas Frutuoso
    Thesis Title: Lifetime Management and Optimization of Wind Farms
    Supervisors: R. Pereira, J.F.A. Madeira, and A. Moutinho
    Status: Ongoing (mid-term evaluation: December 16, 2025)
    Role: Co-supervisor
    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, wind energy, surrogate modeling, cost function design, lifetime extension, Decision Sciences
  2. Degree: PhD in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Ricardo Miguel Alves Magalhães
    Thesis Title: Optimisation of Automatic Resource Allocation
    Supervisors: S. Vieira (IST) and J.F.A. Madeira
    Status: Ongoing
    Keywords: resource allocation optimization, automatic scheduling, Decision Sciences, Operations Research
  3. Degree: PhD in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Ndilokelwa Fernandes Luis (161017/D)
    Thesis Title: Optimal Design of Piezoelectric Sensors and Actuators for the Attenuation of Vibrations in Multilaminated Structures
    Supervisors: J.F.A. Madeira and A.L. Araujo
    Defense Date: November 16, 2016
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: optimal placement, piezoelectric sensors/actuators, vibration control, derivative-free optimization, multi-objective optimization

Master Student Supervision (IST)

  1. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: João Henrique Da Silva Lourenço (ist196714)
    Thesis Title: Design Optimization of Subsea Mid-Water Arch Systems: A Focus on Fatigue, Extreme Loads, and Operational Efficiency
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 19, 2025
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: design optimization, fatigue analysis, operational efficiency, subsea structures, structural reliability
  2. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Pedro Augusto Pereira Magalhães (ist1108470)
    Thesis Title: Multimodal Optimization of Piezoelectric Patch Placement and Shunt Circuit Design for Enhanced Structural Vibration Control
    Supervisors: A.L. Araújo and J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 17, 2025
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: multimodal optimization, optimal placement, piezoelectric damping, vibration control, derivative-free optimization
  3. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Thesis Title: Towards Next-Generation Acoustic Metamaterials: Design and Optimisation of Sandwich, Perforated, and Resonant Structures
    Role: Co-supervisor
    Defense Date: November 12, 2025
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: acoustic optimization, metamaterial design, sandwich structures, noise reduction, structural optimization
  4. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Miguel Marante Pereira
    Thesis Title: Optimization of Wind Farm Operation towards Life-time Extension
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: December 9, 2024
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: wind farm optimization, lifetime extension, operational Decision Sciences, renewable energy, surrogate modeling
  5. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Beatriz Leitão Luis
    Thesis Title: Optimization of Passive Shunted Damping Configurations for Displacement Amplitude Reduction of a Plate
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 24, 2022
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: shunted damping optimization, vibration reduction, optimal configuration, derivative-free optimization
  6. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Bruno Ribeiro Cotrim (87159)
    Thesis Title: Optimal Passive Shunted Damping Configurations for Noise Reduction in Sandwich Panels
    Role: Co-supervisor
    Defense Date: November 24, 2021
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: noise reduction optimization, sandwich panels, passive damping, multi-objective optimization
  7. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Fábio Miguel Cascalheira Aguincha (178268)
    Thesis Title: Multi-objective Optimization of Curved Composite Plates
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: December 2, 2019
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, composite plates, DMS algorithm, structural design
  8. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Marco Fontana (180917)
    Thesis Title: Optimization of Composite Structural Components for Energy Absorption
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 29, 2019
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: composite optimization, energy absorption, crashworthiness, structural design optimization
  9. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: João Francisco Moniz Dionísio
    Thesis Title: Structural Optimization of a Landing Gear
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: January 31, 2019
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: structural optimization, landing gear design, aerospace structures, derivative-free optimization
  10. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Bernardo Augusto Nogueira Castro e Sousa (161045)
    Thesis Title: Analysis and Optimization of Composite Structures Subject to Energy Absorption Criteria
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: December 12, 2018
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: composite optimization, energy absorption, multi-objective optimization, structural crashworthiness
  11. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: José Maria Pinto Basto Cyrne de Castro
    Thesis Title: Design and Multi-objective Optimization of a Composite Impact Attenuator for a Formula Student Car
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 28, 2018
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, composite impact attenuator, crashworthiness, DMS algorithm
  12. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Pedro Simão De Assunção Caldeira (169577)
    Thesis Title: Multi-Objective Topology Optimization for Bi-dimensional Structures
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 27, 2018
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: multi-objective topology optimization, structural design, genetic algorithms, Pareto front
  13. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: João Francisco Matos Alves Ferreira (178634)
    Thesis Title: Structural Analysis and Optimization of a UAV Wing
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 16, 2018
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: structural optimization, UAV wing design, composite structures, aeronautical engineering
  14. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Pedro Manuel Lopes dos Santos (81369)
    Thesis Title: Design and Optimization of the Morphing Wing Tip Structure
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: December 20, 2017
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: shape optimization, morphing wing, aeroelastic design, structural optimization
  15. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: André Miguel Almeida Santos (173437)
    Thesis Title: Dynamic Analysis and Design of Impact Attenuator Structures for a Formula Student Prototype
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: June 26, 2017
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: dynamic analysis, impact attenuator design, structural optimization, Formula Student
  16. Degree: Master's in Mechanical Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Ricardo Miguel Graça Aquino Vieira (171009)
    Thesis Title: High-Speed Train Pantograph Models Identification
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: December 20, 2016
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: system identification, parameter optimization, high-speed rail, dynamic modeling
  17. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: José Miguel Candeias Santos Mareco (170816)
    Thesis Title: Optimization of Reinforcements in Flat Panels with Standard Beams Using Discrete Optimization Methods for Stiffness Criteria
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: July 06, 2016
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: discrete optimization, structural reinforcement, stiffness optimization, combinatorial Decision Sciences
  18. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Iúri Marcelo Pinheiro Figueiredo (167606)
    Thesis Title: Prediction of Mechanical Behavior and Optimization of Hybrid Composite Material Plates
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: June 27, 2016
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: multi-objective optimization, hybrid composites, mechanical behavior prediction, material design
  19. Degree: Master's in Aerospace Engineering
    Institution: Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon
    Name: Diogo André Baltazar Gonçalves Domingues (169395)
    Thesis Title: Composite Optimization of Gearbox Casing used in LMP1 Race Car Under Service and FIA Regulation Load Cases
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    Defense Date: November 20, 2015
    Thesis link: Link
    Keywords: composite optimization, constrained optimization, motorsport engineering, multi-objective structural design

Master Student Supervision (ISEL)

  1. Degree: Master's in Applied Mathematics for Industry (MMATE)
    Institution: ISEL, Instituto Politécnico de Lisboa
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Name: Catarina Jin
    Thesis Title: Public Transport Vehicle Allocation Planning
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Vehicle-to-route allocation in public transport networks; optimization-based decision support tools for fleet planning
    Defense Date: November 19, 2024
    Keywords: vehicle allocation, public transport optimization, mixed-integer programming, fleet planning, Decision Sciences

Applied Decision Sciences — Internships & Projects (ISEL)

Undergraduate internships and projects in collaboration with industry partners, addressing real-world Decision Sciences and Operations Research problems including vehicle routing, fleet management, scheduling, demand forecasting, and logistics optimization.

Ongoing

  1. Student: Diogo Baltazar
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Title: Multi-Objective Optimization of Public Transport Driver Scheduling Using Direct Search Methods
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Multi-objective operational optimization of driver-trip assignment balancing workload equity, service coverage, and operational cost
    Status: Ongoing (2026/02 – 2026/10)

Defended

  1. Student: Rodrigo Macau
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Title: Multi-Objective Optimization of Public Transport Service Allocation
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Multi-objective vehicle-to-route allocation in public transport
    Defense Date: February 2, 2026
  2. Student: Gonçalo Seabra Lourenço Perdigão dos Santos
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Title: Public Transport Vehicle Allocation Planning
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Optimal allocation of public transport vehicles to routes using mathematical optimization and mixed-integer programming
    Defense Date: July 23, 2025
  3. Student: David da Silva Cunha
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Politejo
    Title: Weekly Demand Forecasting Models for Operational Planning
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Demand forecasting under uncertainty; statistical and ML models for inventory management and resource allocation
    Defense Date: July 22, 2025
  4. Student: Margarida Costa
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Title: Dynamic Service Allocation for Public Transport Driver Scheduling
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Operational optimization of driver-trip assignment using mathematical programming and real-time service allocation
    Defense Date: 2024
  5. Student: João Rolo Santos
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Title: Optimization of Transport Service Allocation
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Optimal assignment of transport services integrating scheduling constraints, capacity limitations, and cost minimization
    Defense Date: July 2022 (grade: 17/20)
  6. Student: Mafalda Silva
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Lusíadas Saúde
    Title: Route Optimization for Medicine and Consumable Distribution
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) in healthcare logistics; optimization of hospital distribution circuits
    Defense Date: July 2022 (grade: 16/20)
  7. Student: Jhonata Oliveira
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Tecmic S.A.
    Title: Departure and Arrival Time Estimation for Public Transport
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Predictive analytics for transport operations; ML models for real-time estimation integrated into fleet management DSS
    Defense Date: July 2022 (grade: 17/20)
  8. Student: Rafaela Oliveira
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Café Delta
    Title: Forecasting Tool for Coffee Stock Management during the Pandemic
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Inventory forecasting under uncertainty; Decision Support System for coffee stock management during COVID-19
    Defense Date: July 2021 (grade: 18/20)
  9. Student: Ricardo Melo
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Câmara Municipal de Lisboa (CML)
    Title: Analysis of Lisbon Rental Market through Online Platforms
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Data-driven analytics for urban policy decision support; evidence-based insights for housing policy
    Defense Date: July 2021 (grade: 20/20)
  10. Student: Tomás Malaca
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: CTT — Correios de Portugal
    Title: Tool to Support the Sizing of Distribution Rounds
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: VRP for last-mile postal logistics; distribution round sizing Decision Support Tool
    Defense Date: July 2021 (grade: 17/20)
  11. Student: Rui Paulo Moutinho Monteiro Manso Ribeiro
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Infraestruturas de Portugal
    Title: Creation of Python Scripts for Performing Calculations on Geometric Networks and Application of Graph Theory
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Graph theory and network optimization for transport infrastructure
    Defense Date: July 2020
  12. Student: Ana Sofia Pereira Grácio
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: CML / EMEL
    Title: Optimization of Gira Bike-Sharing Rebalancing
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) variant for bike-sharing rebalancing; demand prediction and station capacity constraints
    Defense Date: July 2020
  13. Student: Mariana Raposo Ferreira Mota (25398)
    Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Exide Technologies, Lda
    Title: Optimization of Battery Charging Table Capacity
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Production scheduling optimization; combinatorial optimization for charging slot assignment
    Defense Date: July 2019
  14. Designation: Internship — LMATE, ISEL/IPL
    Company: Closer Consulting / CML
    Title: Smart City Mobility Analytics and Optimization (Municipality of Lisbon)
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Urban mobility optimization; data-driven models for route optimization, demand prediction, and mobility pattern analysis
    Defense Date: 2018
  15. Students: Lourenço Palma (40669) and Miguel Garrido (40685)
    Designation: Final Project — Computer Engineering, ISEL/IPL
    Title: Determination of Routes for Vehicles in Problems with Time Windows
    Supervisor: J.F.A. Madeira
    DS Problem: Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows (VRPTW)
    Defense Date: June 2017