A Goal-Driven Evolutionary Framework for Team Formation Problem in Social Networks - MSc Thesis Proposal by: Kiana Lesan Pezeshki

Friday, June 6, 2025 - 14:30

The School of Computer Science is pleased to present…

A Goal-Driven Evolutionary Framework for the Team Formation Problem in Social Networks

MSc Thesis Proposal by: Kiana Lesan Pezeshki

Date: Friday, June 6th, 2025

Time:  2:30 PM

Location: MS Teams

 

Abstract:

The Team Formation Problem in Social Networks is an important and challenging computational task that involves selecting the right individuals to form effective teams for specific tasks within a project. In many real-world settings, team formation goes beyond simply matching skills or assigning roles. Human factors such as personal goals, trust, collaboration, motivation, and professional development also play a crucial role.

In this presentation, we propose a new goal-driven evolutionary approach based on cultural algorithms for team formation that reflects both individual and team-level objectives. Unlike traditional methods that assume uniform connectivity or interchangeability among individuals, our approach respects the natural structure of social networks, where relationships vary in strength and influence.

The model integrates key concepts such as Individual Development Plans, varying levels of cooperation, and personalized improvement targets. By considering trust between individuals and the balance between skill alignment and personal ambition, we believe this novel approach offers a more holistic solution to the team formation problem. The effectiveness of the approach is evaluated using the DBLP dataset across various scenarios and compared with existing models.

Thesis Committee:

Internal Reader: Dr. Mehdi Kargar    

External Reader:  Dr. Bharat Maheshwari 

Advisor: Dr. Pooya Moradian Zadeh