Yung Chun (he/him) is a Research Assistant Professor at the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis and the Director of Data Insights at the Center for Social Development. His research focuses on how housing and education policies shape social and economic mobility, especially for families living in poverty and communities of color.

He studies how built environments and social systems interact to influence people’s life outcomes. His work includes evaluating the impacts of large-scale federal housing programs like the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative and analyzing education programs designed to help low-income students and adult learners succeed. He uses advanced statistical and spatial methods to answer real-world policy questions and collaborates closely with community organizations and national partners.

His current projects explore the effects of housing relocation, school choice, case management, and informal STEM training on family stability and upward mobility. He has also led major studies on racial disparities in housing instability during the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term impacts of mortgage assistance programs, and how apprenticeship programs can improve well-being.

His research has informed public debates and policy decisions, including testimony before the U.S. Senate and the Maryland House of Delegates. His work has been cited by organizations such as the Brookings Institution and featured in public radio coverage.