PhD Proposal Defense by Sahar Ebrahimi Bajgani

From Design to Collaboration: A Journey Towards Integrity in Reverse Supply Chains

Abstract:  

This proposal investigates the role of remanufacturing as a strategic response to product shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, specifically addressing ventilator and semiconductor shortages. It identifies operational challenges like quality determination, technical information shortages, and the risk of information leakage between Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and reverse logistics providers. It also highlights the vulnerability of remanufactured electronic products to counterfeiting due to limited traceability. The study introduces a reverse supply chain network model that includes collection centers, third-party remanufacturers, and recyclers, assessed across different pandemic stages. It examines the establishment of minimum quality standards for remanufacturing and the dynamics of technology acquisition, including the risks of technical information leakage. The proposal discusses the effects of penalizing and incentivizing strategies on technology acquisition and profit margins. Additionally, the proposal evaluates the potential of blockchain technology to enhance transparency and traceability in the remanufactured product market, aiming to reduce counterfeiting. It uses an evolutionary game analysis to assess blockchain adoption scenarios influenced by factors like government and consumer actions, employing a Stackelberg game model to explore the dynamics between OEMs, platforms, and uncertified markets.

Proposal Committee:
Prof. Sara Saberi, WPI (Advisor)
Prof. Sharon Johnson, PhD, WPI 
Prof. Fuminori Toyasaki, PhD, York University

Zoom link
https://wpi.zoom.us/j/8389374249

 Sahar Ebrahimi Bajgni is a Ph.D. candidate with a passion for developing sustainable supply chain network models and exploring the transformative potential of blockchain technology. Her research focuses on investigating the challenges of adopting blockchain technology in supply chains plagued by counterfeit issues. She designs supply chain networks to simulate real-world scenarios and examines how cooperation between supply chain participants can sustain blockchain technology as a profitable solution.

In addition to her work on blockchain technology, Sahar is conducting empirical research aimed at pushing the boundaries of blockchain implementation beyond existing literature. She seeks to uncover overlooked challenges and develop comprehensive models that transcend simplistic cost considerations, embracing the multidimensional aspects of blockchain technology.