I build programs that are simple and accessible. My work lives where creativity and problem-solving overlap — computer graphics, extended reality, and human-computer interaction.
Off the clock: guitar, banana bread, and long walks.
Open to internships · new-grad 2027
Software engineer
building graphics
&
human interfaces.
Erik Chao — blending usability and design into thoughtful, user-centered software at the seam of computer graphics, XR, and HCI. MS Computer Science @ UC Santa Cruz.
01 — About
02 — Skills
Programming Languages
Libraries & Frameworks
Tools & Platforms
03 — Selected work
01
Capstone Project: AsymmetricExp
Capstone / WebXR
A web-based, asymmetric multiplayer experience that pairs a fully immersed VR user with a traditional desktop PC player within a single, shared environment. Built entirely on open web standards using Three.js, WebXR, and WebSockets, the game transforms hardware differences into a collaborative mechanic.
02
Spatial Interaction Vault
Research / Gallery
A collection of interaction techniques that users can perform in VR. We've observed over 250 observations of interactions across 30 applications. Created visual analyses across applications and observations.
03
Diving with Seals in VR
WebXR / Three.js
A VR experience in Three.js that allows multiple users to interact with elephant seal paths around Monterey, CA. Improved path rendering speedup by 80% when loading onto the website. Developed a sliding interface for seamless playback.
04
QR Validator
Full-stack / Tool
A web app that validates data stored in a Google Sheet. It reads the unique ID embedded in each QR code and cross-references it with entries in the spreadsheet. Used as a real-time validation tool.
04 — Experience
Sept 2024 - Dec 2024
Artificial Intelligence Tutor
Baskin Engineering, UC Santa Cruz
Assisted students in learning key AI concepts using UC Berkeley's Pac-Man AI Project. Hosted online office hours to provide students with support outside of class. Provided debugging support for students.
Sept 2024 - Dec 2024
Outreach Coordinator
Korean American Student Association
Reinstated a weekly newsletter system for members to be updated with the latest news. Established partnerships with catering vendors to expand fundraiser options. Worked with a team to organize and lead general meetings.