Informatics student · ETH Zurich

Exploring algorithms and the night sky.

I chase interesting problems in algorithms and optimization, and when the sun sets I point a telescope at nebulae and galaxies. Currently I'm studying Computer Science at ETH Zurich. My grade average so far is 5.78/6.

Portrait of Josia John

Highlights

  • Bronze medal, International Olympiad in Informatics 2022
  • Three-time gold medalist, Swiss Olympiad in Informatics (2021–2023)
  • Rieter-Preis for exoplanet search software (matura project)
  • Currently writing bachelor thesis on Approximate Graph Label Selection

What I study

Recent courses include Advanced Graph Algorithms and Optimization, Algorithms with Predictions, Algorithms, Probability, and Computing, and core data structures and probability courses.

I like problems that mix theory and practice: graph algorithms, optimization, and building reliable tooling.

Projects

ExoScanner

Software for amateur astronomers to search for exoplanets and variable stars in image series. Awarded as one of the best matura projects.

GitHub ↗

jOSia

A tiny operating system and bootloader exploring low-level systems programming.

GitHub ↗

Approximate Label Set Selection

Ongoing bachelor thesis work looking at optimization techniques for label set selection problems.

Astrophotography

Open gallery →

When the sky is clear, I point a 200/1000 reflector and DSLR at nebulae and galaxies. Here are a few favorites.

Andromeda Galaxy Crescent Nebula Pleiades star cluster