Bunchung is a collaborative researcher whose work focuses on promoting the well-being of children and families, particularly within underserved communities. He is guided by the belief that when children and families are safe and thriving, the communities around them are strengthened as well. Bunchung joined Wilder in 2018.

His areas of expertise include early childhood, youth development, and family resiliency. He has extensive experience in participatory data collection, strategic planning, community needs assessments, and qualitative research. At Wilder, he has worked with a broad range of partners, including cultural communities, community-based organizations, and government agencies. Most recently, he served as a core team member leading the development of the Minnesota Community and Family Resource Network.

Prior to joining Wilder, he held research positions at the University of Minnesota’s Institute of Child Development, where he studied the development of numeracy skills in children, and within the Department of Psychology, where he contributed to studies on genetic markers related to autism and schizophrenia. He has also provided direct services to children with disabilities and mental health challenges.

Bunchung holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and neuroscience from Macalester College.

Outside of research, Bunchung is an avid volleyball player—both indoor and sand—and enjoys tennis, cooking, and exploring the local restaurant scene. Originally from Cambodia, he has lived in three countries and hopes to see many more. He and his partner share their home with two dogs, Cooper and Nico.