Call for Students - Master Thesis on Evaluation of Classification Approaches for Cryptographic Tokens

ITSA offers support for a master thesis together with the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz. The emergence of cryptographic tokens created a new academic field. ITSA developed a token classification framework to clearly capture the differences between tokens. This master thesis is intended to develop a unique approach to token classification and taxonomy, research other frameworks, and evaluate the development of token classification.

Project description
Cryptographic tokens running on DLT systems will soon form an integral part of various major economic sectors (e.g. financial markets, information and media, manufacturing, and trade). As such they are going to provide utility and value in many different forms to business and society as a whole. Moreover, cryptographic tokens are also on the verge of representing a recognized institutional asset class. Yet, the current token markets still lack a tangible and holistic framework for the identification, classification, and analysis of different token types, which leads to economic, technological as well as regulatory uncertainty and a lack of transparency for all players involved. With the objective of addressing these shortcomings, the International Token Standardization Association (ITSA) e.V. aims at implementing comprehensive market standards for the global token economy.

The ITSA offers this cooperation together with the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz.

Goal of the thesis
The aim of this thesis is to further add to the concept of cryptographic tokens (CT) as major components of blockchain systems. An essential aspect is the systematic discussion of the status of theory and concepts in the area of cryptographic token classification and taxonomy and evaluation of the major classification approaches present in the marketplace. You should provide answers to questions such as “What is a cryptographic token and which role do cryptographic tokens play in blockchain systems?”, “Which relevant approaches exist to classify cryptographic tokens and what are their specifics?”, “What will the direction of development in CT classification and taxonomy most likely look like?”, and outline areas for further research on the topic in the context of the emergence of a tokenized economy.

Requirements
For this thesis we are looking for:

• A highly motivated student with strong analytical skills and advanced skills in working with databases (e.g. SQL, VBA Excel).
• The student should also be interested in working in a team within a dynamic international environment.
• Knowledge of German is welcome, but not a must.

Support will be provided by:

• Prof. Dr. Andranik Tumasjan
• Prof. Dr. Philipp Sandner

Contact
If you are interested in the topic and think you are the right person to get involved, contact Stefan Schmitt, project manager at ITSA (stefan.schmitt@itsa.global).

Remarks

If you like this initiative and support our goals, we would be happy if you forward it to your colleagues or share it on social networks. More information about the International Token Standardization Association can be found on the Internet, on Twitter, or on LinkedIn.

About the International Token Standardization Association (ITSA) e.V.
The International Token Standardization Association (ITSA) e.V. is a not for profit association based in Berlin that promotes the development and implementation of comprehensive market standards for the identification, classification, and analysis of cryptographic tokens. ITSA has over 100 international, associated founding members from various interest groups, including industry associations, banks, stock exchanges, startups, universities, law firms, and industrial enterprises. The International Token Classification (ITC) is a holistic standard framework for the classification of DLT- and blockchain-based cryptographic tokens according to their inherent characteristics.

Contact
Stefan Schmitt, Project Manager
Email: stefan.schmitt@itsa.global
Website: https://www.itsa.global/