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Powder Asset Optimization at Corbion

Background

The Powder Asset Optimization project aims to maximize profitability and production output from Corbion’s constrained powder manufacturing assets. These assets currently operate under significant limitations, including capacity bottlenecks, frequent product changeovers, and reliance on costly tolling arrangements. To address these challenges, the project leverages an optimization-based decision framework that supports Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Product Management, and Finance in making transparent and financially sound choices.

Thus, have a mixed-integer linear cross functional prioritization model, to determine the optimal product portfolio mix. However, is this the best model? Can we integrate statistical/machine learning? Is it future proof? Will it provide feasible and quick solutions?

Hence, we are looking for user friendly mathematical optimization model (+engine to solve it, which is important to make sure it can be implemented at Corbion for long-term) to get the best product portfolio per asset, that implies highest production efficiency and therefore best financial decisions.

To meet the long‑term objective of delivering a scalable and business‑friendly optimization engine, this internship project is initiated.

Internship Project Focus

The internship will explore, design, and prototype a dedicated scenario‑based optimization engine better aligned with the project’s financial and operational decision needs. Key elements include:

  • Evaluating alternative modeling environments (e.g., Python, GAMS, AIMMS, etc.) suitable for OR and financial optimization
  • Translating process and business constraints into mathematical optimization formulations
  • Building and validating an initial prototype engine capable of simulating multiple demand/capacity scenarios
  • Designing a user-oriented framework that supports fast and transparent decision-making across stakeholders

The outcome of the internship will contribute to the strategic transition from engineering‑driven simulations toward an integrated financial‑operations optimization platform, strengthening Corbion’s ability to make data‑driven decisions in its powder portfolio. ''' Your profile'''

  • Experience with data handling and programming in Python, including libraries such as Pandas and NumPy
  • Comfort working with statistical methods and a basic understanding of machine learning concepts
  • Ability to work independently, while also contributing effectively within a small, interdisciplinary team
  • Nice to have: Solid knowledge and foundation in mathematical optimization (e.g., linear programming)
  • Good communication skills in English, both written and verbal

Project Duration

This project is suitable for either a three-month internship or a six-month thesis project.

Compensation

Monthly compensation to be discussed

About Corbion

Corbion is a global leader in sustainable ingredients and preservation technologies, dedicated to preserving what matters—from food and food production to health and the planet. With over a century of expertise, Corbion applies deep knowledge of fermentation, lactic acid and its derivatives, functional ingredient blends, and algae‑based innovations to help customers create safe, high‑performing, and more sustainable solutions.

Location: Arkelsedijk 46, 4206 AC Gorinchem.

Contact

Rita Folcarelli Senior Data Scientist, rita.folcarelli@corbion.com

Roel Bouman roel.bouman@ru.nl

Yuliya Shapovalova yuliya.shapovalova@ru.nl