3D Data visualization

Bring your volumetric data to life in this workshop. Gain hands-on experience with 3D visualization techniques using tools like Fiji, Blender, and Neuroglancer.

Course dates: November 10-13, 2025

Save the dates & stay tuned for registration information (to be published in summer 2025)!

Join us for an engaging 4-day workshop where you’ll bring your own volumetric datasets to life through 3D visualization. We’ll start with impulse sessions on topics like volumetric rendering, mesh processing, and browser visualization. Then, with support from our experts, you’ll apply these techniques directly to your data. Along the way, you’ll work with tools like Fiji, VTK, Blender, and Neuroglancer, and programming skills will be helpful to get the most out of the experience. The workshop wraps up with a gathering where you’ll share your visualizations and experiences.

Learning goals

Day 1: 3D Data Types and Visualization Strategies

• Differentiate 3D data types, such as voxel-based images, meshes, and point clouds.
• Explore existing visualization methods for each data type.
• Learn the basics of volumetric rendering and mesh processing.

Day 2: Web-Based Rendering and Visual Enhancement

• Use browser-based tools like Neuroglancer for 3D visualization.
• Improve your visualizations using Blender.

Day 3: Storytelling with Visualization / Project Work

• Choose effective colors.
• Start working on your own datasets with guidance.

Day 4: Project Work and Presentations

• Work on your visualization projects.
• Participate in group feedback and showcase.

Prerequisites

Participants should apply with a 3D dataset they wish to visualize during the workshop. Please ensure your dataset is publicly accessible and provide a link to it when applying, along with a brief description of its context. Basic programming skills—especially in Python (see “First steps in Python”) — are recommended for engaging with tools and scripting tasks we’ll cover.

Target group

This workshop is open to anyone interested in 3D data visualization, regardless of his or her field or experience level.

This course is free of charge, and part of the data science course portfolio offered by the platforms of the Helmholtz Information and Data Science Framework.