Amos Korman

I am a full professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Haifa. Previously, I served as a senior researcher (Research Director) at CNRS in France.

I am deeply fascinated by the examination of complex phenomena through the algorithmic lens, particularly in uncovering the interconnections between distributed computing, collective intelligence, and the evolution of cooperation. To this end, I analyze specific biological systems—including ants, bats, and humans—alongside abstract multi-agent systems in complex environments. This approach allows me to explore key questions that govern many decentralized collectives:

• What computational challenges do agents face during foraging or information gathering, and which strategies allow them to overcome these constraints?

• How can cooperation emerge in the face of self-interested agents? 

• How do simple local rules give rise to sophisticated emergent patterns and global stability?

In addressing these questions, I apply analytical tools from distributed computing, evolutionary game theory, and probability theory, while collaborating with biologists to integrate these analytical approaches with experiments on animal behavior.

I consider myself an ambassador for algorithm theory within the study of collective animal behavior. My overarching goal has been to establish the research area of "Algorithmic Biology", providing a bridge where computer science theoreticians can engage with empirical science and biologists can utilize advanced analytical tools to understand the computational nature of life.