Suckjoon Jun, Ph.D.

Suckjoon Jun is professor in the Department of Physics at the University of California, San Diego. His work aims to uncover fundamental principles in biology while integrating mechanistic insights with quantitative reasoning and modeling. Key contributions from his group include the development of the widely-used microfluidic mother machine and the discovery and mechanistic explanation of the adder principle in cell size control. Since the pandemic, his lab has expanded its focus “beyond E. coli,” reexamining classic systems in biological physics and cell biology through the lens of physiology.

As a Simons Foundation Pivot Fellow, Jun will collaborate with economist mentor Alberto Bisin of New York University to explore connections between physiology and economics, developing what he calls “econophysiology.” The primary goal is to map core concepts between physiological controls and economic principles, examining whether economic frameworks can yield new insights into physiology. Conversely, physiology may provide a controlled system for testing economic hypotheses that are otherwise difficult to validate. This cross-disciplinary effort aims to expand the methodological toolkit of both quantitative biologists and economists, leading to a deeper understanding of complex systems — whether biological or economic. Ultimately, the goal is to initiate a dialogue that enriches both fields with new perspectives and approaches.