John Joseph M. Carrasco

John Joseph M. Carrasco is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at Northwestern University, within the Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences. He leads the Amplitudes and Insights research group, which focuses on pushing theoretical physics boundaries through advanced computational and conceptual methods to achieve deep physical insight.

His research spans fundamental physics with emphasis on quantum field theories, perturbative quantum gravity, precision cosmology, and gravitational wave science. Carrasco leverages cross-disciplinary expertise in scattering amplitudes, relativity, particle physics, string theory, and cosmology. The Amplitudes and Insights group pursues failure-point predictions that challenge current methodologies to uncover novel physical structures, operating under the philosophy that while computers are powerful tools, fundamental ideas drive progress.

The research group has secured significant funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Framework Program (2014-ERC-stg: Strategic Predictions for Quantum Field Theories/preQFT), Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, United States Department of Energy, AT&T Corporation endowment, and Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences. Carrasco cultivates an environment where group members function like advanced chess players, strategically using algorithms and automation to navigate complex theoretical landscapes while prioritizing creative physical insights.