William Phong

My first interaction with a computer was my dad's ThinkPad when I was five years old. Playing games on the Lego and Disney websites didn’t just entertain me — it sparked my interest in the possibilities of software and technology.

That curiosity grew into a passion for developing technology that has a material impact on people's lives. In middle school, I developed a mobile app to assist dyslexic students, working with a local learning center. During my undergrad, I contributed to a VR Earth Orbit project that transformed published research into an interactive teaching tool for astronomical concepts to students. Most recently, I completed an internship at a biotech startup, applying machine learning to accelerate drug discovery.

Seventeen years later, I’ve turned that early spark into a career path. I am now pursuing my M.S. at SDSU, specializing in machine learning and artificial intelligence.

In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, taking pictures with my film camera, and watching movies.

View my full resume here

1. 2025 - Present
   
   San Diego, CA

   Data Science Intern · Tensor Therapeutics

   Applied machine learning techniques to accelerate drug discovery processes. Utilized Boltz-2 to generate predictive models for RNA structures and molecular interactions. Developed and deployed a scalable variant calling pipeline using Sarek (nf-core), Nextflow, and Docker for genomic data analysis. Configured, managed, and scaled virtual machines on Azure and Lambda.ai, implementing secure networking and SSH access to support efficient remote workflows

   PythonPyTorchTensorflowAzure
2. 2019 - Present
   
   CA, NV, MD

   HS Debate Coach / Judge · TPHS, Advanced Technologies Academy, Potomac Academy

   Developed curriculum modules and specialized preparation documents for individual students and groups of 3-8. Coordinated with high schools, colleges, and staff for tournament logistics

1. VR Earth Orbit Simulation

   Solves an educational issue explaining astronomical concepts by providing a visual, hands-on VR experience. Users can listen to lectures or walk around and interact with the Earth, Moon, and Sun's orbit.

   C#MATLABUnitySteamVR
2. Formula 1 Race Prediction Application

   Developed predictive analytics model using linear/multinomial regression and XGBoost algorithms. Data operations are managed with PostgreSQL and results are visualized using Matplotlib

   PythonTensorflowPytorchSci-kitMatplotlibPandasPostgresql

   
3. Portfolio Website // waphong.com

   My personal portfolio website. Integrates BetterAuth, Prisma and PostgreSQL for backend usage.

   Next.JSTypeScriptTailwindVercelPlaywright

   

1. Present

   San Diego State University

   M.S. in Computer Science

2. Aug 2024

   California State University, San Marcos

   B.S. in Computer Science

   Cum Laude, Deans List Spring 2023 & 2024