Hi, I’m Ruward,

I’m a researcher passionate about exploring the foundations of science—diving deep into theoretical physics, philosophy, technology, and history of science.

Most generally, I explore the intersection between science and philosophy. My work balances technical details in physics with a broader, reflective view of how science evolves. Inspired by my advisor Hasok Chang, I see the history and philosophy of science as a continuation of science by other means: by being able to look in from the outside and look at alternative approaches for which the scientific community has no resources to explore because it would deviate too much from paths that lead to nearby discoveries.

Currently I’m on a post-doc at the University of California, Irvine, funded by the American Institute of Physics through the Robert H.G. Helleman Fellowship. I am looking at ways to logically and systematically navigate the “space of spacetime theories” in which we can map all the theories that can reproduce the same gravitational predictions as general relativity! My Ph.D. was at Cambridge, under the guidance of Jeremy Butterfield and Neil Dewar, and focused on alternative theories in physics: quantum mechanics (with a twist of the multiverse), gauge theories, and gravity.

Further topics I investigate are: (A) thought experiments in science, (B) economic prospects of nuclear fusion energy, (C) history and philosophy of measuring acceleration, (D) ill-structured versus well-structured problems, (E) visualisation, and (F) quantum Brownian motion and the laser-cooling of atoms.

Teaching holds a special place in my heart, and I spend much time teaching at high schools and universities, which I find very rewarding, especially looking to inspire thinking about science that connects history, philosophy, and the thrill of discovery.

When I’m not doing any of that, you’ll find me rowing, cycling, bouldering, playing the piano, and reading as many books as physically possible.

Got ideas? I’m always open for a chat—feel free to reach out!