Kai Heister
Charlottesville,VA
Summary
Biochemistry and Biology student with strong hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and team management. Demonstrated analytical skills through diverse projects, including ecological planning and research initiatives. Seeking part-time opportunities to leverage technical and problem-solving capabilities.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Technical Director
First Year Players at UVA
08.2025 - Current
- Led teams in operation of technical equipment and integration of theatre elements for productions.
- Collaborated with directors to shape production concepts and enhance creative visions.
- Managed technical aspects of theatrical productions, ensuring seamless execution.
- Coordinated equipment setup and maintenance for performances and events.
Member
Washington Literary Society and Debating Union
01.2025 - Current
- Developed public speaking, presentation, and debating skills by engaging in debates with fellow members and presenting literary opinions.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Worked successfully with diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
Lab Intern
University College Dublin
06.2025 - 07.2025
- Through the UVA Global Internship program, worked under Assistant Professor Noeleen Smyth.
- Worked on several projects, including Professor Smyth's ongoing research into the source of Gunerra in Ireland, the UCD Tree Mapping Project using GIS, micropropagation in the UCD Agriculture Lab, biodiversity studies in the UCD Rosemount Environmental Science Research Station, the production of a habitat map of the UCD campus, DNA extraction, and the preparation of an international CITES conference.
- Collaborated at School of Agriculture and Food Science Centre on various research initiatives.
Stage Manager, Technical Director, and Assistant Producer
Spectrum Theatre at UVA
08.2024 - 05.2025
- Managed multiple different teams of people working with technical equipment and other theatre elements.
- Documented stage movements for clarity and accuracy.
- Arranged rental agreements with other UVA theatre companies.
Associate
Acme Markets
01.2022 - 01.2025
- Processed customer transactions while promoting a positive and safe shopping environment.
- Assisted in product preparation and distribution at Acme Bakery and handled front desk duties to enhance customer satisfaction.
Member
Solar Car at UVA
01.2024 - 12.2024
- Designed various components in SolidWorks and worked hands-on with the car, disassembled and replaced parts of the brake system.
Participant, Summer Youth Practicum
Native American Fish & Wildlife Society
CO, USA
07.2022 - 07.2022
- Developed hypothetical ecological plan for elk migration near tribal lands, emphasizing avoidance of human constructs, cultural significance to indigenous peoples, funding considerations, and ecosystem impacts.
- Presented ecological plan at NAFWS Board's annual national meeting in Anchorage, AK, spring 2023, fostering dialogue on elk conservation strategies.
Volunteer Researcher
Earthwatch
Acadia National Park, USA
06.2021 - 08.2021
- As part of an Earthwatch research team, studied the effects of climate change and invasive species at Acadia National Park in Maine.
- Conducted mark and recapture of invasive Green Crabs to estimate their population.
Education
University of Virginia - Biochemistry (BS) and Biology (BA)
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA05-2027
School for Field Studies -
School for Field Studies
Bocas del Toro, Panama08-2024
Skills
- Lab techniques
- Field research
- Lighting technician
- Technical writing
- Data analysis
- Excel
- Coding in Python
- Learning C
- Fusion 360
- Solidworks
- Team management
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Customer service
- PADI Scuba
Timeline
Assistant Technical Director
First Year Players at UVA
08.2025 - Current
Lab Intern
University College Dublin
06.2025 - 07.2025
Member
Washington Literary Society and Debating Union
01.2025 - Current
Stage Manager, Technical Director, and Assistant Producer
Spectrum Theatre at UVA
08.2024 - 05.2025
Member
Solar Car at UVA
01.2024 - 12.2024
Participant, Summer Youth Practicum
Native American Fish & Wildlife Society
07.2022 - 07.2022
Associate
Acme Markets
01.2022 - 01.2025
Volunteer Researcher
Earthwatch
06.2021 - 08.2021
University of Virginia - Biochemistry (BS) and Biology (BA)
University of Virginia
School for Field Studies -
School for Field Studies