Hong Joo Ryoo

Hong Joo Ryoo ’24 is a current NSF Graduate Research Fellow now pursuing a simultaneous PhD in Physics and an MA in Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University, where he is advised by Sean Carroll in both fields. As an undergrad at Berkeley, he completed a quadruple major in Philosophy, Physics, Mathematics, and Cognitive Science.

During his undergrad, Hong Joo developed a new framework at the intersection of physics and philosophy of science—what he calls a “context-dependent mapping” that allows for a new way to philosophically explain quantum mechanical dualities. He published the idea as an undergraduate in the competitive Stance International Journal of Philosophy, and it has since played a central role in his research trajectory and fellowships. 

Growing up between Korea and the United States, he has lived with a dual sense of identity, which is reflected in his academic journey, bridging disciplines and perspectives. He is committed to becoming a leader across intellectual and cultural boundaries, both in academia and beyond.