How can you stay up-to-date with the latest research in nonlinear programming?

1 Follow journals and conferences

One of the best ways to keep track of the latest developments in NLP is to follow the journals and conferences that publish high-quality papers on the topic. Some of the most reputable journals in NLP are Mathematical Programming, SIAM Journal on Optimization, Journal of Global Optimization, and Optimization Methods and Software. Some of the most important conferences in NLP are the International Symposium on Mathematical Programming (ISMP), the International Conference on Continuous Optimization (ICCOPT), and the International Conference on Nonlinear Programming and Variational Inequalities (NPVI). You can subscribe to their newsletters, alerts, or feeds, or browse their archives online.

2 Join online communities and networks

Another way to stay up-to-date with the latest research in NLP is to join online communities and networks that connect researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts in the field. You can find forums, blogs, podcasts, webinars, and social media groups that discuss NLP topics, share resources, and exchange ideas. Some examples of online communities and networks in NLP are the Mathematical Optimization Society (MOS), the INFORMS Optimization Society, the Optimization Online repository, the OR-Exchange Q&A site, and the Nonlinear Programming LinkedIn group.

3 Learn from experts and mentors

A third way to stay up-to-date with the latest research in NLP is to learn from experts and mentors who have experience and knowledge in the field. You can follow their publications, presentations, courses, or workshops, or reach out to them for advice, feedback, or collaboration. You can also attend seminars, webinars, or lectures by NLP experts, or join mentoring programs or initiatives that match you with NLP mentors. Some examples of experts and mentors in NLP are Stephen Boyd, Roger Fletcher, Jorge Nocedal, Yinyu Ye, and Michael Saunders.

4 Use software and tools

A fourth way to stay up-to-date with the latest research in NLP is to use software and tools that implement the latest algorithms, methods, and techniques in NLP. You can find open-source or commercial software packages, libraries, or platforms that solve various types of NLP problems, such as convex, nonconvex, smooth, nonsmooth, or mixed-integer NLP. You can also use software and tools that help you model, analyze, visualize, or benchmark NLP problems and solutions. Some examples of software and tools in NLP are AMPL, GAMS, MATLAB, Julia, Pyomo, Ipopt, Knitro, SNOPT, and NEOS.

5 Experiment and innovate

A fifth way to stay up-to-date with the latest research in NLP is to experiment and innovate with your own NLP problems and solutions. You can apply NLP to real-world or hypothetical scenarios, test different approaches and methods, compare and evaluate results, and report your findings and insights. You can also challenge yourself to find new or improved ways to formulate, solve, or analyze NLP problems, or to extend or generalize existing NLP theory or practice. You can also participate in competitions, challenges, or hackathons that involve NLP, or submit your work to journals, conferences, or platforms for peer review or recognition.

6 Stay curious and motivated

A sixth way to stay up-to-date with the latest research in NLP is to stay curious and motivated about the field. You can read books, articles, blogs, or podcasts that inspire you, educate you, or spark your interest in NLP. You can also set goals, track your progress, or reward yourself for your achievements in NLP. You can also seek feedback, support, or guidance from others who share your passion for NLP, or who can help you overcome your challenges or difficulties in NLP. Most importantly, you can enjoy the process of learning, discovering, and creating in NLP, and appreciate the value and impact of NLP in the world.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?