Dr. Soon Jo Chung

Professor

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Biography

Professor Chung's research focuses on distributed spacecraft systems, space autonomous systems, aerospace robotics, particularly the theory and application of complex nonlinear dynamics, control, estimation, guidance, and autonomous space air vehicles. He has a strong background in control and dynamical systems and has contributed significantly to advancements in aerospace engineering and robotics. Prof. Chung has served as Bren Scholar and holds a professorship at Caltech since 2019. His experience at Jet Propulsion Laboratory as a Senior Research Scientist has further advanced his research contributions in the field.

Research Interests

Distributed Spacecraft Systems Space Autonomous Systems Aerospace Robotics Complex Nonlinear Dynamics Control Estimation Guidance Autonomous Space Air Vehicles

Experience

Professor

2019-01-01 — Present

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Serves as a Professor focusing on advanced research in control and dynamical systems.

Senior Research Scientist

2022-01-01 — Present

Jet Propulsion Laboratory • Pasadena, CA

Contributes to research on autonomous space systems and robotics.

Professor

2018-01-01 — 2019-12-31

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Held the position of Professor after serving as Associate Professor.

Associate Professor

2016-01-01 — 2018-12-31

California Institute of Technology • Pasadena, CA

Engaged in teaching and research in the domain of control and dynamical systems.

Research Scientist

2016-01-01 — 2022-01-01

Jet Propulsion Laboratory • Pasadena, CA

Worked on advanced space technology development.

Courses

CDS 131 – Linear Systems Theory CDS 212 – Optimal Control Reinforcement Learning CDS 245 – Data-driven Control CDS 270 – Advanced Topics Systems Control Ae 105 abc – Space Engineering Ae 208 abc – GALCIT Colloquium

Requirements for California Institute of Technology

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree or equivalent Strong background in mathematics and physical sciences
Application Checklist
  • Online Application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three Letters of Recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Most Caltech graduate programs are PhD-only. GRE General and Subject tests vary by department; many have made them optional or no longer accept them.