Science Design Services
Scientific and Technical Design
100 % HUMAN . 0% AI
Precision visuals
for complex science
and engineering
Years in practice
Years research experience
Commissions delivered
Clients worldwide
Our Services
Built for researchers and engineers
Academic & research
Researchers, scientists & academic institutions
Your research deserves visuals that match its rigour. We work directly from your data, methodology, and figures to produce illustrations that communicate accurately to specialist and non-specialist audiences alike.
- Graphical abstracts for journal submission
- Figures for publications and grant applications
- Conference presentation design
- Science communication and outreach graphics
- Source files provided for academic groups
Engineering & industry
Engineering firms, manufacturers & technology companies
Translate complex mechanical systems and product designs into clear, compelling visuals. We build from your CAD files, schematics, and technical specifications — not approximations.
- Product explainer animations
- Technical documentation illustrations
- 3D renders and environment modelling
- Sales and marketing technical visuals
- Investor and pitch deck graphics
100% human. No AI.
Every illustration is conceived, drawn, and refined by a human expert. Your work starts with your brief and your data — not a prompt to a generative model.
Scientific accuracy guaranteed
With over 20 years of research experience, we understand the science behind the visuals. Errors and misrepresentations are not an option.
Worldwide, fully remote
Based in Leitrim, Ireland. Clients across Europe, North America, and beyond. The entire commission process runs smoothly via email and file transfer.
Laura Gilmartin
Founder · Scientific & Technical Illustrator · Animator
Science Design Services is a one-person studio built on a simple conviction: scientific and technical visuals should be as rigorous as the work they represent. I founded the practice to bring professional design quality to clients who need accuracy alongside aesthetics.
My background spans over 20 years of research experience alongside 8+ years working with academic, engineering, and technology clients. I understand the constraints of journal submission, the expectations of peer review, and the standards required for engineering documentation.
Every commission is handled personally, from initial brief through to final file delivery.
- 20+ years scientific research background
- 8+ years professional illustration & animation practice
- Academic, pharma, engineering, and technology clients
- Ireland-based, serving clients worldwide
- No subcontracting — all work produced in-studio
“The most useful image is the one that makes your audience understand something they couldn’t before.”
On AI and creative work
I do not use AI in my workflow. I have found that commissions starting from a client’s own rough sketches and descriptions consistently produce stronger, more focused results than those beginning with AI-generated reference. For that reason, I do not accept briefs that require AI-generated imagery as a starting point. The work you receive is entirely original.
A clear, collaborative process
Three structured stages keep every commission on time, on brief, and to a standard you can publish with confidence.
01
The brief
You provide background information, a written description of the image or concept, any reference sketches, and examples of styles you admire. The more detail you give, the better the outcome. A 50% deposit is required before work begins.
02
Drafts & refinement
An initial draft establishes the composition, key elements, and relative scales. After your feedback, a second draft adds final text, textures, colours, and detail. You review and approve at each stage.
03
Delivery
Once final feedback is incorporated, the remaining 50% payment is invoiced. Final files are delivered in your required formats. Academic clients receive layered source files to allow future repurposing.
Technical Animations Showreel
What you need to know before commissioning
How long does a commission take?
Timelines vary depending on complexity. A single scientific figure typically takes 5–10 working days from brief to delivery. Animations and multi-panel commissions are quoted individually. Deadlines are discussed at brief stage.
What do I need to provide?
A written description of what you need, any relevant data or reference material, your rough sketches if you have them, and examples of styles you like. The more information you provide, the fewer revision rounds are needed.
What are the payment terms?
A 50% deposit is required before work begins. The remaining 50% is invoiced before final file delivery. Payment is accepted by bank transfer (EUR), money transfer service (multiple currencies), or credit card.
What formats are the final files delivered in?
Final files are provided in the formats you require — typically high-resolution TIFF or EPS for print/publication, and PNG or MP4 for digital use. Academic clients also receive layered source files.
Who owns the rights to the finished work?
Image rights remain with the artist unless otherwise agreed in writing prior to commencement. Usage rights for publication and commercial use are discussed at brief stage.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes. The entire commission process runs remotely via email and file transfer. We work with clients across Europe, North America, and beyond. Currency and payment method are flexible.