Spotlight on Giancarlo Amati

This week the spotlight is on Giancarlo Amati, Research Associate, Digital Developer, IT Desktop/Application Officer, UCL Public and Cultural Engagement.

What is your role and what does it involve?

I am digital developer and IT/AV support officer. As a digital developer, I software code interactive educational applications for mobile devices and PC around the three main collections at UCL. At the Petrie Museum we produced a lot of quality 3D models that are featured in applications available to the public in the museum's galleries. I am originally a software programmer, but working in the PaCE environment allowed me to develop skills on digital design and production that has been fundamental to developing digital exhibitions, websites, and digital apps. I also provide some IT support and IT training when necessary. As a digital developer I have to stay abreast with all kinds of technologies (software and hardware) available in the industry. I'm basically a technology geek in his own ideal world. 

How long have you been at UCL and what was your previous role?

I joined the PaCE department in August 2010. Before that, I was a research associate in medical imaging and interactive motion tracking at the King's College London - Guy's and St. Thomas' Hospital Trust.

What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?

One of the projects that excited me most regarded the development of the Digital Exhibition installed at the UCL Qatar campus: "When Science meets Heritage". I took the lead of developing all the digital assets, sourcing the AV/IT equipment and I collaborated with the graphics and the content designers. At the UCL Qatar campus, I led the overall installation of the exhibition. At the moment, I am project managing the development of the new 3dpetriemuseum website which is now in its second phase development. You can have a look at the first phase already published at the following link: www.ucl.ac.uk/3dpetriemuseum

Tell us about a project you are working on now which is top of you to-do list?

At the moment I am project managing the development of the 3dpetriemuseum website. It's quite a challenging projects as it combines a diverse range of technologies such as 3D for web, interactive timelines and videos and sound clips. As a supervisor of the project, I make sure that all the signed off elements in the design will be delivered by the software/web developers. I do the testing to find potential glitches in the user's experience and bugs in the system. I provide some training to the staff members that are going to populate the website with exciting content.

What is your favourite album, film and novel?

Although I am a classical music fan, my favourite album now is by Maria Gadu' a Brazilian musician; my favourite movie is an old classic: When Henry Met Sally (I know it's a bit cheesy). And my favourite novel is "The House of Spirits" by Isabel Allende.

What is your favourite joke (pre-watershed)?

I still have to find one. 

Who would be your dream dinner guests?

Someone who can play my piano.

What advice would you give your younger self?

To do exactly what I've done, but more business oriented. 

What would it surprise people to know about you?

Showing a picture of me and my identical twin. 

What is your favourite place?

The South Bank Centre in London and Hackney Wick area.