Navigation auf uzh.ch

Suche

Department of Informatics Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies

Agent-Based Modeling of Proposer-Builder Separation in Ethereum

Level: BA/MA
Responsible person: Benjamin Kraner
Keywords:  Ethereum, Restaking, Risks

This thesis proposes an agent-based model to examine the Proposer-Builder Separation (PBS) mechanism in Ethereum, a design that partitions block production between proposers (validators) and block builders. The research will focus on (1) simulating how different economic incentives influence validator and builder strategies, (2) evaluating the impact of PBS on transaction inclusion, fee distribution, and network security, and (3) analyzing the potential for cartel formation or collusion among builders. Using Python-based simulation frameworks and on-chain data, the model will replicate real-world conditions to track agent behavior under various protocol scenarios. By exploring how validators and builders respond to market dynamics—such as fluctuating transaction fees or MEV (Maximal Extractable Value)—the study aims to reveal strengths and vulnerabilities of the PBS design. Furthermore, potential influences on censorship resistance can be studied. The results will inform protocol governance discussions and guide further refinements, helping Ethereum’s transition toward a more efficient and secure block production process. 

References: 

  • Kraner, Benjamin, et al. "Agent-based modelling of ethereum consensus." 2023 IEEE International Conference on Blockchain and Cryptocurrency (ICBC). IEEE, 2023. 
  • Öz, Burak, et al. "Who Wins Ethereum Block Building Auctions and Why?." arXiv preprint arXiv:2407.13931 (2024). Gupta, Tivas, Mallesh M. Pai, and Max Resnick. "The centralizing effects of private order flow on proposer-builder separation." arXiv preprint arXiv:2305.19150 (2023). 
  • Chen, Chien-Chih, and Wojciech Golab. "A Game Theoretic Analysis of Validator Strategies in Ethereum 2.0." arXiv preprint arXiv:2405.03357 (2024).