Minjun Sung

👨💻 About Me

I am a Software Engineer at Waymo, where I am developing motion planning algorithms for the Waymo driver since February 2026. My work focuses on ensuring the vehicle navigates safely and efficiently in complex, real-world scenarios.

Prior to joining Waymo, I earned my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where I was advised by Professor Naira Hovakimyan in the Advanced Controls Research Laboratory. My PhD (Aug 2021-Dec 2025) was centered at the intersection of data-driven control, robust & adaptive control, and machine learning for autonomous driving and robotics. My primary research interest lies in creating safe and reliable autonomy. You can find my previous publications here.

During my Ph.D., I had the valuable opportunity to intern at the Honda Research Institute. There, I developed a crash mitigation system and a socially-aware motion planning algorithm for autonomous vehicles. I also did an internship at Waymo in 2025 with the team I am currently working with.

If you are interested in connecting with me, please send me an email at mjwhitesung@gmail.com.