Kaiqiang Xu

PhD in Computer Science
Kaiqiang (Andy) Xu

Write when drunk.
Edit when sober.
Marketing is the hangover.

Research

My research focuses on the systems foundations of efficient, accessible, and sustainable AI. My work spans GPU communication, distributed computing, novel system abstractions, and cluster architecture. I led the design and operation of AI computing infrastructure supporting research across disciplines.

My work has appeared at NSDI, OSDI, ASPLOS, SIGMOD, SIGCOMM, and ICLR. I received the HKUST Top Engineering Scholars Award (donated by Jensen Huang) and the HKUST CSE Best PhD Dissertation Award. I served on the ACM SIGCOMM 2026 program committee and as a reviewer for IEEE Transactions on Networking. I received my Ph.D. from HKUST and my bachelor’s from Renmin University of China, both in Computer Science.

Startups

My work seeks the synergy between technology and creativity. I aim to design exceptional user experiences in products that embed advanced technologies, transforming the way people interact with complex systems.

I was named to the infamous Forbes 30 Under 30 list twice, in 2022 (Asia) and 2020 (China). The Wall Street Journal featured an exclusive interview with me for creating the world-recognized all-terrain robot HEXA.

Vesta Sleep
Cofounder and CTO, 2020-Now
Cofounded with Zhenyu Gu, Founder and CEO. Investor: Sequoia Capital. Vesta designs and manufactures eco-friendly, innovative, and fun household essentials for consumers worldwide, promoting a high-quality, sustainable lifestyle.
Vincross Robotics
CTO, 2016-2020
Investors include GGV Capital, Lenovo Capital and ZhenFund. Vincross empowers users to access and build the future of robotics. I led a global team and made the first programmable all-terrain robot HEXA for individuals to create robotic applications. Reported by the Wall Street Journal, The Verge, WIRED, IEEE Spectrum and more.

Personal Side

Outside of work, I enjoy art and music whenever I can. My favorite artist is Edward Hopper for his Nighthawks (1942), among others. I recommend the timeless musical Les Misérables to everyone. I dance Argentine Tango and have a love for Golden Age Tango music.

I share my days with Xinning, who runs a bakery with quiet passion and creativity. She holds a Master of Arts in cultural management and brings that sensibility into her brand and craft. She still bakes on her own - every bread carries her care, her rhythm, and a touch of art.

Besides my hometown of Jinan, I have also called Ann Arbor, Beijing, Berkeley, Shenzhen and Hong Kong home.

See you there