JOEY PARK
Biology at the Core, Powered by Math and AI
Student at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Researcher | Artist | Korean Language & Taekwondo Instructor
Research | Art | Service
Research & Projects
Modeling chaotic dynamics with a professor at William & Mary using Takens’ Delay Embeddings and Gaussian Process Regression, and conducting independent cancer bioinformatics research using TCGA data.
Art Portfolio
Over 10 years of drawing and creative work, including more than 20 pieces in various mediums. Art has been my way of exploring the world visually and imaginatively
Service & Leadership
Teaching Korean language and culture to younger students, earning the President’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold). Also serving as a Taekwondo instructor, fostering confidence, discipline, and community
Research Highlights
Exploring biology, mathematics, and computation through data-driven research.
Logistic Map (Methodology Test)
- Applied Takens’ theorem with delay embeddings and trained Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) on the logistic map.
- Tested different sampling strategies (evenly spaced vs. random samples) and compared the long-term dynamics of the true logistic map with those predicted by the GPR model.
Hénon Map (Chaotic Dynamics)
- Applied Takens’ delay embeddings and Gaussian Process Regression to the Hénon map with noisy measurements.
- Compared 2D and 3D reconstructed attractors using different training sample sizes (40, 100, 200) and measured accuracy with Wasserstein distance.
- Larger training sets produced smoother, more accurate reconstructions, showing how GPR learns complex chaotic dynamics under real-world noise.
Ecological Application
- I applied Takens’ delay embeddings and Gaussian Process Regression to long-term biomass data of Salvinia molesta from Kakadu billabongs.
- The system showed chaotic and unpredictable dynamics caused by alternative stable states between the invasive plant and its biological control agent.
- Using this framework, I was able to reconstruct the dynamics and generate meaningful short-term forecasts of ecological change.
Bioinformatics Research
Performed statistical analysis of TCGA genomic datasets to explore gene mutation disparities in gastric cancer between Asian and non-Hispanic White patients, using two-proportion Z-tests to compare mutation ratios.
Found potential risk indicators in APC and PRKAA1 genes, highlighting trends that may contribute to population-level cancer susceptibility.
Built XGBoost and Neural Network models for cancer type prediction from large-scale mutation data, with the Neural Network achieving 81% accuracy, outperforming XGBoost
My Creative Journey
Healer of the Deep
I created this drawing to embody my dream of active conservation. I imagine myself descending into the ocean, surrounded by marine life, taking on the role of a healer. I am shown mending, protecting, and offering help to sea creatures in need.
This piece reflects my deep wish to step into the natural world not just as an observer, but as someone who restores balance and actively gives back to the vital ecosystems that sustain us.
Guardians of Land, Sea, and Sky
I created this drawing to visualize my commitment to protecting animals across land, sea, and sky. I showed myself actively working: freeing a whale, safeguarding nesting birds, and protecting polar bears’ icy home.
The piece reflects my personal wish to live in harmony with nature. I intend this work to be a visual promise to stand beside the creatures who depend on my generation for care and protection.
Seeing myself from a new angle
I created this drawing to reflect the turning point in my self-journey. I presented myself from an unusual perspective, aiming to capture the feeling of being both the subject and the observer simultaneously.
By intentionally obscuring part of the face, I explored the inherent uncertainty of identity and the ongoing process of piecing together who I am. The unique perspective represents my crucial lesson: learning to step outside myself to re-examine my individuality.
I see this piece as a powerful reminder that true growth often begins when I choose to look at myself differently and understand my place within a larger system.
Facets of Reflection
I created “Facets of Reflection” to show the clarity I gained through intense self-reflection. I chose the hand holding gemstones to symbolize the process of grasping my inner self.
By meticulously focusing on light and detail, I learned to see the world more carefully and build patience. I believe this piece captures my growing ability to turn small observations into larger, meaningful perspectives.
Plastic Eden
I designed “Plastic Eden” to explore the critical imbalance between the natural world and modern human consumption. I created the central figure, whose hair merges into barren branches, to symbolize the inseparable bond between humanity and nature. The red apple she holds represents the choices and knowledge that define our relationship with the environment.
I intentionally contrasted this symbolic beauty with the harsh reality at the base: a mound of discarded, colorful plastic debris. I positioned the vibrant green snake as an agent of temptation and the lurking environmental threat.
My goal was to convey an urgent message: Pollution, visibly catching in the tree’s limbs, is consuming our paradise. I advocate for the urgent necessity of restoring balance for a sustainable future.
Empowering Others, Building Community
Korean Language & Culture
Teaching Korean language and culture to younger students, fostering cross-cultural connection and leadership.
Earned President’s Volunteer Service Award (Gold 2023, Silver 2024)
Honored with National Association for Korean Schools Junior Leadership Award (Gold 2024, 2025)
Taekwondo Leadership
Guiding children in discipline, confidence, and respect through martial arts instruction and mentorship.
Assisting young children in learning Taekwondo basics with patience and care.
Encouraging discipline, confidence, and respect through every class.
