Prof. Kerstin Preuschoff

Kerstin Preuschoff is Associate Professor in Neurofinance and Neuroeconomics at the University of Geneva. Before joining the University, Professor Preuschoff was a researcher and lecturer at the Institute for Empirical Research in Economics of the University of Zurich and at the Brain Mind Institute of the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne.

Professor Preuschoff focuses on how the human brain employs inferential neural processes to overcome the problem of uncertainty. Inference is considered a fundamental process in highly diverse situations including value-based decision-making or perception. On the one hand, value-based decision-making involves a time-consuming process requiring conscious consideration of multiple decision variables. On the other hand, perception is automatic and effortless. Due to possible uncertainty, however, both processes may require input from the general neural system. Using experimental data, Professor Preuschoff shows that uncertainty, whether within a value-based decision-making environment or a perception environment, employs a common brain region—the anterior insula. These results provide empirical evidence that the brain interacts with its environment through inferential processes.

• Portfolio Management and Asset Classes
  • Behavioral Finance and Neurofinance