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Combinatorial Markov Search

Published in Symposium on Theory of Computing, 2026

We explore an extension of the Pandora’s box problem where each box is modeled as an MDP. We obtain a constant-factor approximation using a Prophet Inequality-style algorithm that considers boxes one at a time.

Recommended citation: Bowers, Robin, Elias Lindgren, and Bo Waggoner. "Combinatorial Markov Search." Symposium on Theory of Computing, 2026, https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.08976.
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Qualifier Selection Mechanisms in Collegiate Cross Country

Published in , 2026

We analyze the algorithm used in NCAA Division I Cross Country to select which teams qualify for the national championships meet, and a more general family of selection algorithms, taking an axiomatic social choice approach.

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