National Jewish Health
Creative Director and Animator
bringing the unseen to life
THE STORY
National Jewish Health’s education department enlisted me to create a series of medical animations illustrating complex pathologies of the respiratory system. The goal was to develop a visually compelling, stylized representation of cellular processes that enhances medical education and training.
THE CHALLENGE
Bringing these microscopic processes into 3D required extensive research and collaboration. Using microscope slides as reference, I designed and textured each cell to ensure that experts could immediately recognize key structures while making them visually engaging for educational use. Every model was reviewed and refined with input from physicians and specialists, ensuring both scientific accuracy and aesthetic clarity. This was an entirely new approach for National Jewish Health—translating these cellular forms into a cinematic 3D environment that had never been explored before.
IMPACT & ONGOING WORK
To date, I have completed four educational videos, covering:
🔹 Upper vs. Lower Respiratory Tracts & the Unified Airway Theory
🔹 Chronic Inflammatory Diseases of the Upper Airway
🔹 Pathophysiology of EGPA (Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis)
🔹 The Inflammatory Cascade in Asthma
I am currently working on four additional videos, further expanding this immersive medical animation series. These animations have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from physicians and educators, strengthening National Jewish Health’s training materials and engaging their audiences with visually dynamic storytelling.
RESPONSIBILITIES
3D Model Design & Animation – Creating scientifically informed, stylized representations of cells and biological structures
Texturing & Shading – Translating microscope slide references into recognizable yet visually engaging 3D forms
Lighting & Rendering – Developing a cinematic look that enhances clarity and storytelling
Editing & Composition – Assembling final videos with narration and seamless transitions
Scientific Review & Iteration – Collaborating with physicians to ensure accuracy and recognizability
Project Management – Ensuring timely delivery and budget alignment while managing reviews and approvals
BEHIND THE SCENES
This project has been a rewarding mix of design, animation, and technical problem-solving.
