David Chang

David Chang is a graduate of High Technology High School from Marlboro, New Jersey. At Columbia, he plans on majoring in computer science with a possible minor in physics.

David has primarily conducted research in astrophysics with a focus on exoplanet candidate detection, or the discovery of planets orbiting stars other than the sun. Using modern data science techniques such as machine learning and GPU computing, he has worked to develop accessible software capable of producing some of the fastest, most accurate detections to date. With this research, David wishes to contribute to our understanding of exoplanet populations, characteristics of habitable planets, and eventually the search for life beyond Earth. He was named a 2022 Regeneron STS scholar for his research and given the opportunity to share it at the 240th annual meeting of the American Astronomical Society.

Aside from his research, David is also dedicated to education. In high school, he participated in a lot of STEM-based activities including his school’s math league, research club, international M3 challenge team, and many others. Having also been on a robotics team throughout middle school and high school, David has always been passionate about sharing these experiences with others. He has coached a local robotics team of elementary schoolers and served as a student teacher for many non-profit organizations, instructing a variety of classes in the sciences. In the end, he hopes to further inspire young students to pursue interests in STEM by exposing them to exciting concepts regardless of their educational background.

Outside of the classroom, David enjoys hiking, reading books, and music. He is really excited to explore NYC and visit all the surrounding parks and museums.