Vinícius Ferraz
Data and A.I. Products Specialist
Researcher in Machine Learning applied to economics and business problems
I am a researcher specializing in computational and experimental economics, working at the intersection between economics and computer science. My academic contributions primarily focus on developing and applying computational models to address complex business and economic challenges.
Parallel to my academic pursuits, I hold the position of Chief Data and AI Officer at ILI.DIGITAL AG, leading the Data and AI products team. My professional path has been marked by roles in data science, digital strategy, and product development, with former positions at Ernst & Young (EY), Trivago, and Deutsche Telekom.
This website is designed to collect my scholarly work and public engagements, including scientific papers, code repositories, articles, and more.
Research Interests
My research interests are focused on the computational modeling of economics and business problems. This includes studies of decision behavior, economic experiments, game theory, agent-based simulation models, machine learning, and Generative AI.
Publications
Analyzing the Impact of Strategic Behavior in an Evolutionary Learning Model Using a Genetic Algorithm. Comput Econ 63, 437–475 (2024)
with T. Pitz
Working Papers
Trust in the Machine: How Contextual Factors and Personality Traits Shape Algorithm Aversion and Collaboration (2023)
with L. Houf, T. Pitz, C. Schwieren& J. Sickmann
Understanding Dark Personality Traits and Strategic Choices in an Inspection Game: Insights from Machine Learning and Causal Inference (2023)
Stationary Equilibria in Behavioral Game Theory: An Experimental Analysis of Inspection Games (2022)
Motivated Sampling of Information: Analysis With Experimental Data and Agent-Based Modeling in a Bayesian Framework (2023)
with L. Houf
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Work in Progress
Here you can find an overview of project I am currently working on
A Large Scale Prediction of Behavior in Completely Mixed Games: A Machine-Learning-based approach
with R. Nagel
Description: This project involves a machine learning analysis of 2x2 game frameworks, using data from multiple experimental studies. The approach employs a feature-engineered dataset to glean insights into the anatomy of these game scenarios, as reported in existing literature. The objective is to uncover the factors that significantly impact observed behavior.
Exploring Gender Differences in Interpreting Feedback Through LLM-Driven Simulations in Professional Settings
Description: This research project analyzes gender differences in the interpretation of feedback and confidence levels within a business environment. We use large language models (LLMs) as simulated agents to mimic interactions in a company setting, aiming to understand how gender influences feedback reception and self-assurance in professional contexts.
Academic
Heidelberg University
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computational & Experimental Economics
2020 - 2023
Rhine-Waal University
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Economics and Finance
2015 - 2017
Business
Current Position
Chief Data and AI Officer
ILI. DIGITAL AG
2018 - Present
Previous Positions
Consulting, Product Management, and Data Science at
Deutsche Telekom, EY, Trivago, and Mazda Motor Europe.
Overall Industry Experience
Throughout my career, I have worked in business strategy and management consulting, helping clients optimize their operations. I later shifted my focus to product management, leading the development of digital products using agile methodologies. My career expanded into data science, working technically in data analytics and eventually leading efforts in the design, development, and deployment of AI-powered products and platforms.