Resources/RA and SURF Opportunity
Student Resources
- Introduction to the Caltech Economics Option
- Recommended plan to satisfy the Economics Option (from Professor Antonio Rangel)
- Guide to Economics Graduate Schools
RA/SURF
I am looking for students who can help my research as an RA. In this project, I use mathematical and computational methods to analyze human decision making. I explained one of my project in the following [slide] and [video]. You can understand the back information about the projects here [slide] and [video].
Current RA Alec Sandoroni 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 Economics. You can read our paper [here].
It is a great opportunity for students who are:
- interested in how math and computer science can be used to analyze human decision making; or
- considering going to graduate schools and becoming a researcher.
Required skills/Tasks:
Required skills: I am looking for students who has 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.
Tasks: The tasks that I will ask are discussion with me and my coauthors, programming, and mathematical analysis. 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.) That said, I understand that you are students with coursework and other responsibilities. I respect your time, and we can find a mutually agreeable schedule.
How to Apply:
If you are interested, please follow these steps:
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.
Solve the Quiz: Complete the provided quiz [illustrations]. All past successful RAs were able to solve it.
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.
Example: Alec Sandroni's Experience
Alec has worked with me on multiple SURF projects for four years since his freshman year. Together with Haruki Kono, we solved an important open problem in stochastic choice theory within economic decision-making. Alec gained experience in every stage of writing an academic research paper, including:
- Generating ideas and formulating mathematical models.
- Completing rigorous proofs and analyses.
- Finalizing the paper and presenting it at conferences in London, Kyoto, and Paris.
- Submitting the paper, which is now under revision for publication.
While I cannot guarantee publishable results in a top journal, I can promise a meaningful research experience. This experience provides a strong foundation for anyone serious about pursuing research in any mathematical field.