Science Explainer Animation for UKRI – Showcasing Research That Changes Lives
At Cass Productions, we specialise in science explainer animation, transforming complex ideas into compelling, easy-to-understand stories. One of our most exciting collaborations in this space was with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), for whom we produced a series of engaging animated explainers designed to highlight groundbreaking scientific research from leading UK universities across Hampshire and the UK.
The objective was clear: to communicate scientific innovation in a way that’s accessible to non-experts, emotionally impactful, and visually memorable. Our animations helped bring cutting-edge research to life, breaking down academic complexity and inspiring curiosity in a wider audience.
Why Science Explainer Animation Works
Science explainer animation is a powerful tool in communication and education. Research is often deeply technical or couched in academic jargon, which can make it hard to engage the general public. But through animation, we can reframe this content, making it clear, approachable, and even entertaining.
Animated explainer videos allow us to:
Simplify complex topics without diluting accuracy
Make abstract science tangible with visual metaphors and storytelling
Engage viewers emotionally through design, pacing, and voice
Support education, outreach, and public understanding of science
Enable wide distribution across websites, social media, and presentations
This format is particularly effective for public bodies, universities, and research groups looking to demonstrate impact and connect with broader audiences.
Our Work for UKRI: From Research to Animation
The animations we created for UKRI explored a diverse range of scientific innovations, from revolutionary soundproofing materials to the use of plants in urban air pollution control. These projects were part of a wider communications strategy to demonstrate how publicly funded research is delivering real-world impact.
We managed the full creative process, including:
Scripting – Translating dense research summaries into engaging, plain-language scripts
Storyboarding – Mapping visual scenes that align with each narrative
2D Animation – Using stylised characters, bold colour palettes, and dynamic transitions
Voiceover & Music – Sourcing professional voice artists and soundtracks that match the tone and target audience
The result was a cohesive suite of science explainer animations that communicated complex innovations clearly, effectively, and with emotion that reached Hampshire and the rest of the UK
Visualising the Physics of Life
These animations were produced as part of UKRI’s wider Physics of Life initiative, a programme highlighting interdisciplinary research that connects physics with biology, chemistry, and environmental science.
Our animations helped visualise these boundary-crossing concepts, showcasing how collaboration between scientific disciplines can lead to world-changing solutions. Whether the topic was materials science, botanical engineering, or urban ecology, each film was carefully designed to be:
Accurate – Reviewed by subject matter experts
Relatable – Built around human impact and real-world relevance
Visually striking – Designed to hold attention and enhance comprehension
We used subtle shading, bold linework, and carefully chosen visual metaphors to ensure the content felt grounded, yet fresh and contemporary.
Collaboration and Scientific Accuracy
Scientific accuracy was a non-negotiable aspect of the project. We worked closely with UKRI communications teams, university research departments, and individual scientists to ensure every visual and narrative choice aligned with the data.
The collaborative process included:
Research consultations
Academic material review
Script iterations based on expert feedback
Visual approvals with principal investigators and research leads
Our goal was to strike the perfect balance between technical credibility and viewer engagement. By combining research rigour with creative storytelling, we created animations that not only informed but inspired.
Learn More About Our Animation Work
At Cass Productions, we’re passionate about turning science into stories. Whether you’re looking to explain a complex process, highlight a breakthrough, or increase public engagement with research, science explainer animation can help you do it with clarity and creativity.
View more of our science and education animations in our Portfolio
Learn more about UKRI’s Physics of Life programme at ukri.org
If you’re ready to bring your research to life, we’d love to help you visualise your vision from our office in Southampton, Hampshire.