Decoding Science with Data: Meet Ph.D. Student Munjung Kim

Image

Munjung Kim

Hometown: Pohang, South Korea

Education: Ph.D. in Data Science, University of Virginia  

B.S. in Physics 2021, Pohang University of Science and Technology

Munjung Kim has always been curious about how knowledge takes shape – within science, society, and human communities. Originally from Pohang, South Korea, she studied physics as an undergraduate but found herself drawn to questions beyond traditional physical systems. 

Now a Ph.D. student in data science at the University of Virginia (UVA), Kim explores how data-driven approaches can reveal patterns in the way knowledge evolves. In this Q&A, she shares what drew her to UVA, her research interests, and her reflections on pursuing an interdisciplinary doctoral journey.

Q: When and how did you become interested in data science?

I have always been fascinated by how collective knowledge evolves within human communities, as well as by the broader question of how science itself progresses. I have also loved the methodology of physics, especially the idea of using simple mathematical models to describe complex systems, but I found myself less interested in the traditional physical systems studied in that field.

Toward the end of my undergraduate studies, I discovered the areas of computational social science and science of science, and realized I could apply data-driven, physics-like approaches to understanding human systems. The idea of using big data to uncover simple patterns in complex social or scientific dynamics is what drew me to data science.

Q: Choosing a doctoral program is a big decision. Why did you choose UVA's Ph.D. in Data Science?

I chose UVA's phd in Data Science because I was excited by the opportunity to grow in a new environment and to work at the intersection of many diverse fields.

Q: What areas of research interest you and why?

I'm particularly drawn to the science of science, as well as related areas like the philosophy and sociology of science. I've always been fascinated by meta-level thinking, reflecting on how knowledge is produced, organized, and evolves over time. My interests also extend beyond formal scientific domains to the broader evolution of knowledge itself, including how ideas emerge in society more generally.

Q: What do you hope to do with your data science degree?

I hope to continue in academia, although it will ultimately depend on the opportunities and circumstances at the time.

Q: What advice would you give to prospective students considering a Ph.D. in Data Science?  What do you wish you had known before starting?

I think one of the most important things for anyone considering a Ph.D is having confidence in your motivation and enthusiasm to see a long-term project through. It's a challenging journey, so having a strong internal drive really matters. That said, I'm still in the early to middle stages of my own Ph.D., so I know I have a lot more to learn along the way!

Q: What are your initial impressions of the school, faculty, and other students? What are you most excited about and what challenges do you anticipate?

My initial impression of the school is that it brings together a highly diverse range of disciplines, creating a rich and completely new environment, unlike anything I've experienced before. The faculty seem incredibly supportive. I'm especially excited about gaining new perspectives by learning from peers across different fields. 

At the same time, I anticipate that interdisciplinary communication may be a challenge, as each field has its own terminology, norms, and ways of thinking. Still, I believe that finding common ground across disciplines can lead to truly creative and impactful collaborations.

Q: What is a fun fact about yourself?

There was a year I lost my phone 10 times. I have just two upper incisors.