From China to Charlotte: Alum follows in mentor’s footsteps

Sam Wang, right, is pictured with Chang Shu, a first-year doctoral student in Nigel Zheng’s lab, as they review the computer analysis of Lena Thompson’s motion tests; junior Marc Duemmler observes the process.

Shangcheng “Sam” Wang ’18 completed his doctorate in mechanical engineering under the guidance of Nigel Zheng, a pioneering researcher in the field of biomechanics—the study of human movement.

Now, Wang is embarking on a career at Atrium Health; he recently accepted a position as a research engineer.

“I will be designing and implementing biomechanical tests proposed by Atrium orthopedic surgeons and fellows,” said Wang. “By applying my engineering and research expertise in orthopedics, I hope to develop products that can improve the outcome of current surgical interventions.”

Wang’s journey to study with Zheng began in China. He grew up in a rural village of about 100 families who live primarily by farming. As a teenager, his father purchased various agricultural machinery, and Wang became interested in how they operated.

Exploring the mechanical equipment sparked his interest in studying mechanical engineering, and he completed a bachelor’s degree from the University of Shanghai and then finished a master’s degree at Shanghai Jiaotong University, often referred to as the “MIT of the East.”

During his graduate studies, Wang met UNC Charlotte’s Zheng, who was presenting an invited seminar at Shanghai Jiaotong University.

“Through Dr. Zheng’s presentation, I become more interested in learning about his research,” said Wang. He decided to apply for Ph.D. studies at UNC Charlotte to work more closely with Zheng. “I knew that greater opportunities would be available at UNC Charlotte due to the number of health care providers in the city, and having the expertise of Dr. Zheng as an advisor would be advantageous.”

As a Ph.D. student, Wang worked closely with Zheng on his dissertation “Lower Limb Biomechanics after Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA).”

According to Wang, knee osteoarthritis is a painful and disabling disease that is prevalent among elder adults. Arthroplasty, or the surgical reconstruction or replacement of the joint, can effectively alleviate knee arthritic pain and improve patient quality of life. His research of 50 patients in collaboration with clinical researchers at Shanghai Jiaotong University indicated evidence that patients still exhibited function limitations in ascending/descending stairs; ankle, knee and hip biomechanics were not restored to normal after TKA; and about 20 percent of patients were not satisfied with their current TKA.

Wang is excited to start his career with Atrium.

“Biomechanics involves studying about ourselves as humans, and, as researchers and engineers, we can provide insight on medical issues to help people realize a better quality of life,” said Wang.