Director, 3D Innovations (3DI) Lab at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego
Justin Ryan blends art and science in a way few others do. With a background in intermedia art and biomedical engineering, he leads Rady Children’s 3DI Lab — a space where creativity meets clinical care. His work helps bring clarity to complex medical conditions and supports surgical teams with precision 3D models.
Describe a typical workday.
There’s no such thing as a typical day in the 3DI Lab. One morning might involve building a model from a CT scan; another could be spent prototyping devices or speaking with families about how 3D technology is shaping care.
How did your artistic background shape your path?
At Arizona State University, I studied intermedia — a collaborative art form — and worked with mentors who encouraged blending disciplines. That experience led me to biomedical engineering, where I discovered that the same tools used in digital art could be applied to medical modeling and innovation.
What’s been a highlight since launching the lab?
I’m proud of how quickly our team has come together. In just a few months, we’ve created dozens of models and begun collaborating with industry and medical societies to advance safe, effective 3D printing in pediatric care.
What sets the 3DI Lab apart?
Unlike many programs that serve a single department, our lab is open to the entire hospital. That cross-disciplinary support makes it possible to innovate more broadly and serve a wider range of patients.
What excites you most about your role?
I get to see the impact of our work in real time — not just on clinicians, but on families. We’re developing tools that help parents better understand their child’s condition, including an interactive education portal with 3D models and resources.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
Since moving to San Diego, I’ve taken up surfing. I’m still learning, but I love it. My wife and I often head to Tourmaline Beach to catch waves and explore the coast.