Michael Wellman

Michael Wellman is the Lynn A. Conway Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Michigan, College of Engineering. His research focuses on computational game theory, with applications to economics, finance, and cybersecurity. He has advised 28 graduated PhD students and currently guides 6 more. His group explores multi-agent systems, market design, and strategic interaction through agent-based simulations and empirical game-theoretic analysis. Wellman emphasizes student independence and collaboration, holding weekly one-on-one meetings and group sessions for progress updates and paper discussions. He supports student internships, conferences (e.g., ICAIF, AAAI), and teaching experiences (GSI roles). His work bridges theoretical foundations with practical challenges in AI, finance, and security, reflected in his endowed professorships and contributions to adaptive cyber-defense frameworks.

Education & Awards: Holds the Lynn A. Conway Professorship, an endowed chair recognizing his contributions to teaching and research. He created the Morris Wellman Faculty Development Professorship to support junior faculty. His research spans over 20 years, with recent focus on AI-driven strategies in fragmented markets and spoofing detection.

Research Themes: Agent-based modeling of financial markets, strategic interaction in multi-agent systems, and cybersecurity through game-theoretic approaches. His lab develops tools for empirical game analysis, including frameworks for deep reinforcement learning and meta-game evaluation.

Teaching & Mentorship: Encourages students to pursue independent research trajectories while maintaining group citizenship norms. Teaches courses in AI and game theory, with many students serving as Graduate Student Instructors. Prioritizes feedback loops and conference participation for career readiness.

Awards & Recognition: Recipient of the Lynn A. Conway Professorship, a testament to his dual excellence in scholarship and mentorship. His work on adaptive cyber defense and financial benchmark manipulation has garnered interdisciplinary acclaim.