Interview: Chunyan Shi

How and when did you join Zurich Instruments?

I initially joined Zurich Instruments as an Application Scientist and soon transitioned into a Product Manager role—a perfect next step after my years in academia. My PhD research at the Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics, followed by work in quantum metrology at the Paris Observatory and the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, taught me the excitement of tackling tough challenges and creating meaningful impact. By the time I wrapped up at Lund University in Sweden, I was ready for something new, and Zurich Instruments offered just the right opportunity to apply my experience in a broader industry setting.

What does your job look like, and what is the most important aspect of it?

Today, as a Product Manager, I’m the go-between for our customers, R&D teams, marketing, and sales—collecting feedback, prioritizing features, and shaping the product roadmap. Whether it’s refining specifications with engineering, giving strategic input to our sales colleagues, or planning upcoming releases, I find immense satisfaction in shepherding ideas from concept to reality. Talking with and visiting customers is a key part of my role, allowing me to experience firsthand how our technologies help push scientific boundaries. This direct link to the people who use our solution is both inspiring and essential for delivering the innovations they need.

What is the most memorable Zurich Instruments moment that stayed with you?

I really liked the time when employees from all offices gathered together in Zurich. We climbed up the Uetliberg in Zurich and had a nice dinner there, not to mention the many training sessions where we had a great chance to learn from each other.

How do you spend your free time?

In my free time, I like hiking and reading. It sounds like the perfect hobbies for a pandemic. I also like travelling, as it widens my view of the world.