Project:	Analyzing Human Decision-Making Through Mathematical Models
Disciplines:	Economics, Mathematics
Mentor:	Kota Saito, Professor, (HSS), saito@caltech.edu
Mentor URL:	https://saito.caltech.edu/  (opens in new window)
Background:	I am seeking a highly motivated Research Assistant (RA). In this project, I use mathematical and computational methods to analyze human decision making. You can learn more about my project in this video: Watch here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfeNuMOBS_I Current RA Alec Sandroni is available to discuss his experiences working with me. Together, we have co-authored a paper currently under revision for the American Economic Review, one of the top journals in Social Science. You can read our paper here. https://arxiv.org/abs/2302.03913 If you find this work challenging or outside your areas of interest, it may be beneficial to explore other RA opportunities. This video also provides a background of the project: Watch here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puW-nlEr-Hw
Description:	Description: The tasks that I will ask are as follows: 1: Meet at least twice a week with me and my co-authors. This does not mean that all you have to do is meet. You need to keep considering the questions other than meeting time. 2: Mathematical Analysis 3: Programming This position is ideal for students who: 1: are interested in applying mathematics and computer science to understand human decision making. 2: are considering graduate school, as this role offers valuable research experience and the potential for a recommendation letter based on your contributions. While we may not always achieve a publishable result in a very good journal, I can guarantee meaningful research experience. For example, Alec joined early in his fist year and played a pivotal role in solving a challenging aspect of our paper. Together, we: 1: Completed the necessary proofs. 2: Finalized the paper. 3: Presented our findings at major conferences in London, Kyoto, and Paris. 4: Submitted the paper, which is currently under revision. This experience provides a strong foundation for anyone serious about pursuing research in any field.
References:	Presentation of the paper: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfeNuMOBS_I Background information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puW-nlEr-Hw Paper: https://arxiv.org/abs/2302.03913 Quiz: https://saito.caltech.edu/documents/20776/question_to_ra.pdf
Student Requirements:	I am looking for students who can satisfy the following requirements: Very strong mathematical ability: Successful RAs in the past, like Alec, have typically been outstanding math students, often excelling in advanced math courses during their first or second year. You should demonstrate strong proficiency, evidenced by high grades (A or A+) in courses such as Ma108 or Ma110, or by notable achievements in high school math competitions. My successful RAs have generally been among the very best in their year in terms of mathematical ability. If you are interested in the position, you should first try to read paper that I wrote with Alec. Also you should try to solve the quiz here: https://saito.caltech.edu/documents/20776/question_to_ra.pdf This quiz captures some mathematical aspects of the problem that I am working on. Commitment: My research is highly theoretical and demands substantial time and dedication. This is not a part-time role but rather an opportunity to work closely with me on significant, open questions in Economics. If successful, we will aim to co-author a research paper together. (In theoretical work, the number of co-authors is typically small-you will not be one of many contributors.) How to Apply: If you are interested, please follow these steps: 1: Read the Paper: Carefully read the paper I co-authored with Alec. Assess whether you can understand the material. My presentation video posted above would be useful. If you find it too challenging or outside your area of interest, it may be worth exploring other RA opportunities. 2:Solve the Quiz: Complete the provided quiz. All past successful RAs were able to solve it. 3:Email Me: Send me an email with your CV and the solution to the quiz. Your CV should include details about your math and computer science coursework, along with your grades.
Programs:	This AO can be done under the following programs:   Program    Available To        SURF    Caltech students only  Click on a program name for program info and application requirements.