Abstract:

The evolution of the art of filmmaking is closely tied to technical innovation. From the earliest invention of the motion picture camera to the first use of stop motion and on to the development of techniques that use computers for modern-day visual effects, filmmaking has evolved through collaboration between art and science. Today, the visual effects industry uses computer science technology to bring worlds and galaxies to life. And yet many students are unaware that there are computer science careers within the media and entertainment industry. Encouraging this diverse group of talented computer scientists to enter the field not only gives students options in their careers but also strengthens this collaborative industry.

Dr. Rachel Rose, Director of Research & Development at the storied visual effects company Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), will share her experience leading the development of software and hardware innovations that help artists bring film to life. Dr. Rose will also discuss the important role the Academy Software Foundation plays in maintaining a base of open source software for the industry that anyone can contribute to, including students. She will outline some of the outreach and education efforts within the Foundation that encourage students of diverse backgrounds to consider a career in the industry.

Bio:

Rachel Rose, Director of Research & Development at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), drives technology that aids artists in the creation of feature films, episodic series, and interactive media. In her 16 years at ILM, Rachel has worked on a wide range of films, series, and other media, including Rango (2011), Noah (2014), Strange Magic (2015), Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (2016), Star Wars: The Force Unleashed 2 (2010), and Lucasfilm’s Disney+ series The Mandalorian (2019-), specifically driving forward the Emmy® Award-winning ILM StageCraft LED technology used on the show.

Rachel Rose, formerly Rachel Heck, attended Grinnell College from 1997-2001, where she completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Computer Science and English. Rachel’s strong interest in the intersection of real-time technology and the film industry started while working on her Ph.D. thesis on real-time motion synthesis at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. She worked at Rockstar Games as an intern for two summers during her graduate studies which set her up well for understanding the complex challenges in the media and entertainment industry. In 2007, she completed her Ph.D. in Computer Science with an emphasis in Computer Graphics and started her career at ILM. During her time at ILM, Rachel has worked directly on technology for character rigging, facial animation, digital actor simulation systems, virtual production, real-time animation, and production pipeline efficiency, among other topics.

Rachel Rose is an active member of the VFX Branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS); she participates in the Academy’s Science and Technology Council, the VFX Branch Executive Committee, and the Scientific and Technical Awards Main Committee. Rachel is also a member of the TV Academy and the Visual Effects Society. Her work on ILM’s BlockParty, a visual, procedural rigging system, earned her an Academy Award for Technical Achievement from AMPAS in 2018.

Rachel is also a strong advocate for women in technology and film, participating in DEI efforts throughout the industry, including as co-chair for the Diversity & Inclusion Working Group of the Academy Software Foundation. Through her many public speaking engagements, she hopes to inspire young people, particularly young women, to pursue their dreams of working in media and entertainment.