Tatiana seated with her dog

About Tatiana

Science, translated through image and motion.

Welcome to my portfolio. I am a scientific designer and illustrator with a PhD in Materials Science. My research background gives me the vocabulary to understand complex subjects and translate them into clear, accessible and engaging visuals and animations through storytelling.

Through illustration and animation, I reveal structures, processes and ideas that are often difficult to see. My goal is to bring science to life for audiences ranging from specialists to curious non-scientists.

The name SpoTStudio was inspired by Nina’s spots. She is my loyal companion behind every creation and the studio mascot, following each project closely from beginning to end and inspiring me along the way.

Beyond the lab, I believe that science can be experienced not only through data, but also visually—as a form of art.

We design together

Shared understanding

We work closely to ensure your research vision is accurately translated into clear, high-quality scientific visuals.

Reliable delivery

A clear workflow

An efficient process from concept to final version, supporting tight deadlines for publications, thesis submissions and grant proposals.

Scientific expertise

Research-informed design

Expertise across academic and industrial research environments informs every collaboration and helps me translate your science accurately.

Selected background

Science behind the design

A compact view of the experience that informs my scientific illustration and visual communication practice.

SpoTStudioDr. Tatiana Soto MonteroScientific Designer — Science and Engineering ConceptsEnschede, Netherlands+31 6 1712 12248

Education

  • PhD, Materials ScienceUniversity of Twente · 2024
  • MSc, ChemistryUniversity of Costa Rica · 2019 · cum laude
  • BSc, ChemistryUniversity of Costa Rica · 2016

Selected experience

  • Postdoctoral ResearcherXUV Optics Industrial Focus Group · 2025–present
  • Scientific Designer & IllustratorSpoTStudio · 2024–present
  • Postdoctoral ResearcherIMS, University of Twente · 2024
  • Visiting ResearcherMolecular Foundry, Berkeley · 2023
  • Lecturer, Inorganic ChemistryUniversity of Costa Rica · 2019
  • Visiting ResearcherEPFL, Lausanne · 2018

Communication & recognition

  • AmbassadorVisualize your Science · 2025–present
  • Invited workshops and talksScientific visual communication · 2025–2026
  • Best poster awardsInternational tandemPV workshops · 2022 & 2024

Curious about the work?

Explore the portfolio