Hello! I am an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Fordham University. Prior to coming to Fordham, I briefly taught at Middlebury College. I completed my PhD at the University of Virginia.

I work in general philosophy of science. My current work focuses on the epistemology and methodological foundations of scientific modeling, particularly on characterizing how analogy and metaphor contribute to model-based science. I write about metaphysics and epistemology more broadly as well, including the metaphysics of science (e.g., counterfactuals, modality, and the laws of nature) and its methodology. 

I have diverse teaching interests beyond my research areas. I especially enjoy teaching classical Chinese philosophy and developing new ways to teach logic. I also serve on the Executive Board of the brand-new Asian-American Studies program at Fordham.

If you'd like to contact me, please write to ptan8@fordham.edu.