About Me
Hi, I’m Gio—a PhD student in High Energy Physics Theory and Cosmology at the University of Chicago. I am also an Orchestral Music Composer.
I’m passionate about understanding the abstract framework that shapes our universe, and I see my work as telling a story about how the cosmos unfolds. My love for physics began with a deep curiosity about how the world works at its most fundamental level. I was drawn to high-energy physics because it unravels the abstract relationships that underpin everything around us—quantum fields and fundamental forces, with all the nerdy math! Cosmology offers a playground to test and refine these ideas, revealing the interplay between theory and the observable cosmos that is born of it.
There’s a humility in seeing how much we've learned yet how little we understand, having barely scraped the surface.
Music has been my lifelong companion—an essential form of my emotional communication. Growing up playing the piano and trumpet, I've been inspired by both the classical canon and modern explorations in sound. I draw inspiration from Romantic composers like Tchaikovsky, Mahler, and Bruckner, as well as modernists like Stravinsky and Schoenberg. I see creating music as an invitation for others to share the same excitement, drama, sadness, and joy together. Through composition, I am blessed with the opportunity to connect with others on a one-to-one personal basis through music.
Giovani Leone
The major theme I see is the power of community and learning from others—both in academia and in life. Whether it’s in the classroom or over a shared meal, building relationships is at the heart of my work; meeting other scientists and studying nature is some of the most exciting work that I have done. I also enjoy the informal communities that I am a part of: I host write nights with friends—where we compose music, write, draw, and simply enjoy each other’s company.
Writing is my newest means of connecting with others. I’m exploring the world of nonfiction with plans to eventually delve into fiction as well. I’m fascinated by how science, art, and shared human experiences intersect. This website is my attempt at learning how to write about this. I hope to share the journey of being an early career scientist, the creative process behind music and other forms of expression, and what I've learned from the stories we tell and the lives we lead.
I’m a guy who wants to do it all—somehow balancing research, music, teaching, and writing—and trying my best! If you got this far, consider signing up and getting the latest on what I'm up to.
Thanks!
—Gio