Xunjie Zhang

Xunjie Zhang is a mechatronics engineer and entrepreneur based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He is the founder and CEO of Shift Robotics (formerly known as Nimbus Robotics), a company that develops innovative walking-assist technology.12

Professional Background

Zhang has an extensive background in engineering and robotics:

• He holds a Master of Science in Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University (2015-2017).1
• Prior to his graduate studies, he earned a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on Control System and Robotics Engineering from the University of Bristol (2007-2011).1

Career Highlights

Shift Robotics: Zhang founded Shift Robotics in March 2018, where he currently serves as both CEO and Mechatronics Engineer.1 The company's flagship product is the "Moonwalkers" - AI-powered shoes that significantly increase walking speed without additional effort.24

Previous Experience: Before founding Shift Robotics, Zhang worked at Rolls-Royce in various engineering roles from 2011 to 2015, including:

• Functional Development Engineer
• Manufacture Improvement Project Lead
• Accelerated Innovation Project Manager
• Engine Monitoring System Engineering Trainee1

Innovations and Achievements

Zhang's work at Shift Robotics has garnered significant attention:

• The "Moonwalkers" were selected by TIME as one of the best inventions of 2023.3
• Zhang describes the technology as "augmented walking," which can make mobility safer, more reliable, and more sustainable for millions of people.2
• The product aims to make the world more walkable, potentially revolutionizing urban transportation.4

Zhang's vision extends beyond just creating a product; he aims to reshape how people think about mobility in urban environments, making everything feel "within walking distance".2