Jerry Tessendorf

Professor Jerry Tessendorf is a Professor of Visual Computing at Clemson University's School of Computing within the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences. He also holds the position of Faculty Fellow of the Hagler Institute for Advanced Study at Texas A&M University. His work bridges computer graphics, physics-based simulation, and visual effects with applications in film production and scientific visualization.

Professor Tessendorf's research focuses on physically based simulation of natural phenomena, particularly ocean and fluid dynamics, volume rendering, and radiative transfer. His work spans theoretical foundations to practical applications in visual effects. He has developed influential algorithms including the iWave water surface simulation technique, Gilligan (a maritime digital twin framework), and advanced volume rendering methods. His research combines mathematical rigor with practical implementation for both scientific and entertainment applications.

Tessendorf's publication record demonstrates consistent innovation across decades, with recent work focusing on maritime digital twins, advanced ocean rendering techniques, and path integral methods for radiative transfer. His research shows a clear trajectory from fundamental theory to practical applications in visual effects and scientific visualization.

Awards and Recognition:

• AMPAS Technical Achievement Award 2008 (Oscar for technical achievement) for developing fluid dynamics tools at Rhythm and Hues Studios, used to create realistic animation of liquids and gases in film production
• Co-chair of the Symposium on Computer Animation 2008 at Trinity College Dublin

Professor Tessendorf teaches advanced courses in computer graphics, including CPSC 4040/6040 Computer Graphics Images, CPSC 4190/6190 Introduction to Physically Based Modeling and Animation, and CPSC 8190 Physically Based Effects (focusing on Volume Modeling and Rendering). His educational approach integrates theoretical foundations with practical implementation through projects like the Fitz Film initiative, which involves students in all stages of digital content creation.

His lab work centers around the Gilligan project, a prototype framework for simulating and rendering maritime environments with capabilities including ocean with normal mapping and whitecaps, wakes with whitecaps, hydrostatic boat buoyancy dynamics, nonlinear free surface dynamics, and atmospheric optics. This work represents a comprehensive digital twin approach to maritime visualization with applications in both entertainment and scientific domains.