Patrick Coleman
About Patrick Coleman
Patrick Coleman is a Technical Supervisor at Pixar Animation Studios, specializing in Global Technology and Simulation. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from the University of Toronto and has contributed to notable projects, including the Academy Award-winning short film Ryan and the character simulation for Finding Dory.
Current Role at Pixar Animation Studios
Patrick Coleman serves as Technical Supervisor—Global Technology and Simulation, Software Engineer, and Technical Director at Pixar Animation Studios. He has held this position since 2011, contributing to various projects from the studio's location in Emeryville, CA. His responsibilities include overseeing technology development and simulation processes, ensuring the integration of advanced techniques in animation. Coleman has played a key role in projects such as 'Finding Dory,' where he led the research and development of the physics simulation system for the character Hank.
Education and Academic Background
Patrick Coleman completed his PhD in Computer Science at the University of Toronto from 2005 to 2011. Prior to that, he earned a Master of Science in Computer Science from the same institution between 2002 and 2004. His undergraduate studies were completed at The Ohio State University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering from 1998 to 2002. Additionally, he pursued studies in the arts at the Toronto School of Art, focusing on life drawing, anatomy, and painting.
Previous Experience at Pixar Animation Studios
Before his current role, Patrick Coleman worked at Pixar Animation Studios as a Technical Director / TD Intern from 2004 to 2007. He also served as an Effects Maker for a brief period in 2010. During his time as a Technical Director Intern, he gained valuable experience in various aspects of animation technology, which laid the groundwork for his later contributions to the studio's projects.
Research Contributions and Publications
Patrick Coleman has published research in several areas related to animation and technology. His work includes contributions to character rigging, non-photorealistic animation, geometry processing, and interface design for character animation. This research reflects his expertise in the intersection of computer science and artistic expression, enhancing the technical capabilities within the animation industry.
Key Projects and Innovations
Coleman has been instrumental in developing innovative systems at Pixar Animation Studios. He designed and was the principal developer for the volumetric data pipeline used to create the soul characters in the film 'Soul.' Additionally, he developed a motion capture retargeting system that allows for live previews of human motion capture data applied to animated characters, showcasing his contributions to advancing animation technology.