Twin innovators shaping the future of digital experiences through applied research

Twin brothers Patrick and Thomas Morris arrived at Sheridan to pursue matching Honours Bachelor of Computer Science (Mobile Computing) majors with an expected graduation in December 2026 — but no one expected them to also embark on parallel research journeys.

As two of the College’s student researchers, they are reshaping everything from virtual orchestras to AI-driven storytelling, proving that even within the same program, two students and brothers can follow completely different paths to innovation.

As a student researcher with Generator at Sheridan’s Screen Industries Research and Training Centre (SIRT), Patrick has pushed the boundaries of Unreal Engine and real-time animation through two major industry projects with Ballinran and Transport Canada. For Ballinran — a film, television and digital media studio based in Stratford, Ont. — he helped create a virtual reality orchestra game for its arts streaming platform StageviewTV where players conduct a fully responsive digital ensemble. This included designing Vertex Animation Texture (VAT)-based crowd animation, real-time tempo control and MetaSounds-driven instruments that let every section — from strings to percussion — move organically with the music.

Patrick then shifted to accessibility innovation, supporting the development of a text-to-sign-language animation prototype in collaboration with Transport Canada and Deaf AI, showing how emerging technologies can make public communication more inclusive. The project explores how written announcements can be transformed into natural American Sign Language and langue des signes québécoise using virtual avatars, highlighting the potential of digital signage and real-time communication systems to improve accessibility for Deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers in airports.

“Working on real projects not only helped me understand both the technology and the storytelling behind emerging technologies, but also taught me far more than any single class ever could.”

– Honours Bachelor of Computer Science (Mobile Computing) student researcher Thomas Morris

While Patrick engineered dynamic orchestras and virtual avatars, Thomas explored the creative frontier of artificial intelligence (AI) through SIRT’s project with Camber Arts, an inter-arts non-profit organization based in Western Newfoundland. His research focused on transforming stage plays and narrative concepts into interactive digital experiences powered by emerging AI tools. Working in the early research and development phase, Thomas was responsible for rapid experimentation and proof-of-concept development. Using Python, Streamlit and Gemini AI, he built prototypes capable of generating 3D, browser-based game experiences from simple creative prompts. He also developed a system supporting automated game concept ideation and the creation of early-stage game design documents — paving the way for future interactive storytelling tools.

Although their projects differed, the Morris brothers agree on one thing: Sheridan’s research and innovation ecosystem has shaped their academic and career goals in lasting ways. For Patrick and Thomas, the projects helped hone their technical skills and enhance their collaboration and communication skills.

“I learned how to translate complex technical ideas for creative teams,” said Thomas. “Working on real projects not only helped me understand both the technology and the storytelling behind emerging technologies, but also taught me far more than any single class ever could.”

These sentiments are echoed by Patrick: “I’m more organized, communicative and confident working in a group. These experiences have prepared me for future industry opportunities where teamwork, iteration and problem‑solving are essential.”

As they look ahead to graduation, Patrick and Thomas see their research not as the end of a project, but the beginning of a career shaped by curiosity, creativity and impact. Their experiences at Sheridan have shown them how applied research can turn ideas into tangible solutions — from virtual orchestras that respond to a conductor’s movement to AI-driven storytelling that transforms imagination into interactive worlds. For the Morris brothers, these projects have been more than learning opportunities; they have been a glimpse into the power of innovation, collaboration and technology to make a real-world difference. Their work shows how student researchers can turn imagination into impact — and how two brothers can innovate in harmony, each in their own way.

Interested in learning more about how to get involved as a student in research, innovation and entrepreneurship at Sheridan? Visit sheridancollege.ca/generator.