Michal Feldman is a Professor of Computer Science at the Blavatnik School of Computer Science at Tel-Aviv University, Chair of Computation and Economics and a researcher at Microsoft Research (MSR) Herzliya.
Prof. Feldman is a leader in Algorithmic Game Theory, focusing on the dynamic space where algorithms, economics, and game theory converge. Her research addresses the complexities introduced by the Internet’s pervasive influence, considering the simultaneous interactions of a vast number of users driven by economic motives. Notably, her early work on incentives in peer-to-peer systems, a pioneering effort employing game theory to shape user behavior in computer systems, has had enduring impact, gaining relevance in the evolving field of blockchain design. Another significant contribution is the concept of the strong price of anarchy, revealing scenarios where collaboration and coalition formation among agents can mitigate the efficiency loss due to selfishness.
Prof. Feldman's exploration of simple mechanisms, such as simultaneous auctions, for selling multiple goods has unveiled valuable insights into the practical feasibility of complex markets, showcasing that simplicity can often achieve optimal performance. Her innovative ideas in this area are expected to influence the research community for years to come.
Prof. Feldman’s influential papers, such as those on outcome quality in cooperative games and simultaneous auctions, have left a lasting impact on the field. She serves as Vice Chair of ACM SIGEcom and on the editorial boards of respected journals such as GEB, MOR, JCSS, and ACM TEAC.
Her numerous accolades include prestigious awards and various grants and fellowships, including ERC (European Research Council), Marie Curie IOF, Alon, and ISF. She is an alumna of the Israeli Young Academy and the Global Young Academy.