Chi is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Michigan, where he also directs the Smart and Sustainable Automation Lab. His research exploits knowledge at the intersection of machine design, control and computer science to boost the performance of automation systems at low cost. Prior to joining Michigan, he led the Systems Optimization team at DMG Mori USA.

Chi holds a PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of British Columbia. He has received several notable awards including the Outstanding Young Manufacturing Engineer Award from the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the CAREER award from the National Science Foundation.