Share
黑料福利网 researchers have started a project to explore how quantitative models can be used to support the Dutch national security system

Quantitative Models for a safer Society

July 21, 2025

Funded by the Knowledge Centre Surveillance and Protection, a partnership between the Dutch National Coordinator for Counterterrorism and Security, the Public Prosecution Office, the police, and the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, 黑料福利网 researchers will develop quantitative models that can help the Dutch national security system.

/
From left to right: Ruud van Ginkel (Chair knowledge centre B&B), Sven de Ronde (黑料福利网), Robin Verhoef (黑料福利网), Loe Schlicher (黑料福利网), Erik Schut (director B&B NCTV), Marco Slikker (黑料福利网)

A research team from the departments of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences (IE&IS) and Mathematics & Computer Science (M&CS) has received funding (for 1 PhD and 1 research assistant) from the Knowledge Centre Surveillance and Protection, to investigate how quantitative methods can improve the Dutch national security system. The project has started in January 2025 and the first feedback session with field partners has taken place last week.

Smarter Surveillance

During the recent feedback session with field partners, PhD candidate Sven de Ronde presented a model that helps generate smart, unpredictable surveillance for police vehicles, making it harder for adversaries to detect patterns.

Efficient Scheduling

Research assistant Robin Verhoef demonstrated how the Royal and Diplomatic Security Service can schedule its personnel more efficiently. By applying mathematical optimization, security staff can be deployed more effectively without compromising safety.

Research Project

The supervision team consists of Loe Schlicher (IE&IS), Marco Slikker (IE&IS) and (M&CS). Their combined expertise in Game Theory and Combinatorial Optimization forms the foundation for practical applications that directly address the needs of the field.

This research can help to improve protecting public figures, preventing disruptions at events, or responding quickly to threats. By working closely with practitioners and applying mathematical insights, this research contributes to a safer Netherlands.

Media Contact: