Add Algorithm Engineering section referencing Sanders (2009)

Author: schulzchristian

README.md

@@ -8,6 +8,12 @@ This repository contains the program definition for **Agentic Algorithm Engineer
 
 See [AAE.md](AAE.md) for the full program definition.
 
+## Algorithm Engineering
+
+Algorithm Engineering, as defined by [Sanders (2009)](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-03456-5_22), is a methodology for algorithmic research built around a cycle of design, analysis, implementation, and experimental evaluation. Unlike traditional algorithmics, which often stops at theoretical analysis, algorithm engineering insists on closing the loop: hypotheses about algorithm performance are tested experimentally on realistic inputs, and the results feed back into improved designs. Central to this process are falsifiable hypotheses, following Popper's scientific method applied to algorithms.
+
+Agentic Algorithm Engineering takes this methodology and hands the cycle to an autonomous AI agent. The agent formulates hypotheses, implements changes, runs experiments, and evaluates results, iterating continuously without human intervention. This allows systematic, high-throughput exploration of the optimization space while maintaining the scientific rigor of the AE methodology.
+
 ## Contributing
 
 We welcome contributions! Feel free to open a pull request if you have improvements, extensions, or new ideas.