Bio

Mehr Salami is a Ph.D. student in the industrial engineering department at NC State University. She also earned a master’s degree in Operations Research from NC State in 2024.

During her graduate studies, Salami served as a research assistant at NC State. Additionally, she presented research on simulation-based approaches for rebalancing micromobility systems at the 2023 INFORMS Annual Meeting.

Salami also gained industry experience as an Operations Research Intern with United Airlines in 2025. There, she developed machine learning models using large datasets to help optimize aircraft turnaround operations. Her internship allowed her to apply data, optimization and analytics to real-world aviation challenges.

Advisor

Yahya Fathi

Concentration

System Analytics and Optimization

Area(s) of Expertise

Salami’s research applies operations research, optimization and data analytics to complex transportation and logistics problems. Her work includes food rescue logistics and micromobility systems. She has developed methods that account for changing demand, volunteer availability and other real-world uncertainties. Her research combines advanced analytical methods with practical applications. Through this work, Salami focuses on developing solutions that improve transportation, logistics and mobility systems.