About Me
Hi, I'm Chenyu from China — though most people call me Krist, inspired by the bass player of Nirvana. I've been deeply passionate about rock music for years and spent a long time playing in bands. By the way, I call myself a "minimalist", as you can see from this blog design.
Academically
I am a postgraduate student in Business Analytics at Trinity College Dublin, graduating with first-class honours.
My work and academic interests mainly focus on:
- Artificial Intelligence and Large Language Models (LLMs)
- Blockchain Analytics and DeFi Markets
- Product Management
- Business and Data Analytics
My postgraduate dissertation, Leveraging Large Language Models and Blockchain Analytics for Quantitative Insights in DeFi Markets, explores how LLMs and blockchain data can be combined to generate quantitative insights for decentralized finance markets.
Interestingly, my academic background originally began in engineering. I studied Materials Science and Engineering with a specialization in New Energy Technologies, where I conducted research related to fuel cells and published research papers in the field. Alongside this, I also completed a minor in Computer Science.
Throughout university, I received multiple scholarships and academic awards, including recognition in the National College Mathematics Competition.
My academic journey focuses on the intersection of AI, quantitative finance, blockchain analytics, and business strategy. I am particularly interested in how large language models and on-chain data can be applied to generate quantitative insights for DeFi and financial markets.
Coming from an engineering background while transitioning into analytics and AI has given me a multidisciplinary perspective on problem solving — combining technical thinking, data analysis, and business understanding.
Professionally
I have accumulated experience across analytics, AI, fintech, and project management through several internships and industry roles.
At BMW Leasing, I worked as a Business Analyst focusing on CRM systems, leasing finance operations, and AI-powered solutions. My responsibilities included AI Agent deployment, LLM applications, UAT testing, and supporting products throughout the full lifecycle from business requirements to implementation.
Later, I joined Mercedes-Benz as a Project Manager, where I worked on projects related to smart charging infrastructure and electricity trading operations.
Outside traditional corporate roles, I also spent over a year working as a trader at OKX and six months at Flutter Entertainment. Eventually, I realized that constantly chasing profits was not the kind of life I wanted long term, so I stepped away from trading and spent several months working as a bartender at Hard Rock Cafe to experience a completely different pace of life.
As of May 2026, I am currently exploring new opportunities and remain highly interested in analyst-related roles, particularly those connected to AI, data, strategy, fintech, and emerging technologies.
Personally
Outside of work and academics, I’m also someone who deeply enjoys traveling. Over the years, I’ve visited dozens of countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Experiencing different cultures and perspectives has shaped the way I think about people and the world itself.
One of my personal goals for the next five years is to travel to Antarctica.
This blog is where I share ideas, projects, research notes, and thoughts on technology, markets, and building products.