Henry Garcia simulates hair, clothing, and more in animated films

“What can physicists do? ” is an interview series that profiles physicists who opted for careers outside of academia.

What was your research focus?

Solid-state experimental physics.

What were you looking for in a job?

I originally wanted to teach. But I didn’t know if I had the passion and drive to finish my PhD, do a postdoc, start a faculty position, and eventually maybe get tenure. A studio sent an email to graduate students at Berkeley about working in computer animation, and I thought, I could do this.

How did you transition into animation at Pixar?

I audited a computer graphics course to get my feet wet. In 2008, I started a residency at Pixar, during which I worked on the films Up and Toy Story 3. I accepted the full-time position in 2009 and decided to forgo the PhD.

How do you spend your time?

As a simulation supervisor, I lead a team of simulation artists. I have a lot of meetings. I work with producers to figure out how we are going to get a film done and with directors and production designers to make sure we are holding true to the art form of the film. I carve out about 15% of my time to work on making the movie.

What do you like about your job?

I am surrounded by a melting pot of people who are all talented in different ways. There is a culture of kindness and support. And I love the combination of technical and artistic work.

How do you use your physics in your job?

I make sure that the physics we apply for the motion of hair, cloth, and vegetation adds to the performance. A soft skill is being able to break complicated problems into manageable pieces.

What new skills did you need to pick up?

On the technical side, I knew hardly anything about computer graphics. But I really had to work on the artistic side. I had to learn to use physics to create something beautiful.

Is there anything you’d like to add?

I was the first in my family to graduate from college. Success can come from anywhere—we have to support and help people and give them a chance. It helps them, and it helps society.

Also see an extended interview with Henry Garcia that was published on 12 November 2025.