YSI @ Agent-Based Models in Economics Seasonal School 2026 UFRJ

The economy is a complex evolving system, thus its analysis requires tools that can take into account all dimensions relevant to such a complex world. As young researchers, we often question how to take into account heterogeneity, interactions, non-linearities, path-dependency, and tipping points, to name a few. In this project, we will learn and discuss together a powerful and growing tool that can address the complexity of the economy: agent-based models. We will investigate what the frontiers in macro ABM are and discuss how this tool can help answer the key economic questions of our times.

The project is a partnership with the Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna (Italy). In addition to engaging in the discussions organized by the YSI side event, selected participants will also attend lectures presenting ABM techniques, develop and design a model through software laboratories, and learn how to analyze statistically the data produced by ABMs. The workshop provides students with both the technical and methodological skills required to successfully develop and analyze simulation models in a research project, allowing them to use these tools in their research as part of their Ph.D. or a research paper.

The school is aimed at Master’s and Ph.D. students enrolled in Economics curricula, while applicants from other disciplines are also welcome. Selected participants will be offered partial travel stipends by the YSI. Please note that, to be considered for the YSI travel stipend, it is required to apply BOTH to the Seasonal School and the YSI selection.