Lukas Schubotz

Bio Sketch: Lukas is a PhD student researching the implementation and use of behavioural psychology theories in agent-based modelling at the faculty for Technology, Policy, and Management at TU Delft since March 2023. He works at the department of Engineering Systems and Services and is a member of the Energy Transition Lab. Lukas holds a master’s degree in innovation science from Utrecht University and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics with a minor in Psychology from Heidelberg University. He likes to investigate the grand societal challenges to overcome wicked problems. As such, he performed research on sustainability transitions in the German construction and building sector with special focus to the multi-level governance structure as well as on Dutch plastic circularity. His interest in behaviour stems from the personal conclusion that society does not deal with knowledge problems, but with conversion problems. He is passionate about researching this gap interdisciplinarily by means of agent-based modelling.

Research Sketch: In his PhD, Lukas creates re-usable code building blocks for agent-based modelling in the energy transition. The Energy Transition Lab believes that psychology is the missing link in researching transitions. Thus, Lukas works closely with his “PhD twin” Mariëlle Rietkerk to incorporate behavioural theories in his simulations. He will focus on using machine learning and inverse modelling to develop new modelling techniques and contribute to both modelling and psychology. At the time of writing, he is new to the topic and busy exploring networks and possibilities by diving head-on into various rabbit holes. Wish him good luck or send an email to get in contact.

Hobbies: Lukas likes a variety of sports like ultimate frisbee, spikeball, stand-up paddling, biking or hiking, but also experimenting with food or making ingredients from scratch. He’s making poor attempts in playing the harmonica and would very much like to have a dog – but there is just no time…