Zhenfei Zhang
Blockchain Architect | Cryptographer | Rust Engineer
I work on blockchain technology with a focus on cryptography. I have been working in cryptography since 2009 and in blockchain architecture and Rust engineering since 2018. I develop high-performance cryptographic code and publish research in the field. My most recent role was Chief Cryptographer at Polyhedra Network. My professional journey includes roles at leading blockchain companies: Algorand, Espresso, Ethereum Foundation, and Scroll.
I organized the Sumcheck Builder Group, fostering collaboration and innovation in Zero-Knowledge Proofs and Sum-Check Protocols through regular seminars.
I contributed to the Falcon signature scheme, a NIST PQC standard that is now being integrated by major blockchains. I also worked on the BLS standard, a core component that enabled Ethereum's BeaconChain upgrade.
Recent Focus Areas
- On-chain Verifiable AI: I pioneered this domain in 2020 with my ZEN paper. I advised Modulus Labs, who productionized verifiable AI and were acquired by Worldcoin. My most recent work is a zkML framework that can be integrated into PyTorch.
- On-chain Private Payment Systems: I also began exploring this domain in 2020 and have multiple publications and software projects in this area, ranging from shielded address payment protocols and private decentralized exchange protocols to fully private on-chain smart contracts.