Thomas is a geoscientist and data engineer specializing in seafloor mapping, geophysical analysis, and ocean exploration data. He has extensive professional experience designing automated data pipelines, managing large geospatial databases, and coordinating shipboard operations that utilize various technologies, including telepresence-enabled, autonomous, and remotely-operated acquisition systems. Thomas earned a B.S. in geology from the University of Florida and holds M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in geological sciences from the University of Idaho, where his academic research focused on understanding seafloor tectonics through numerical simulations of geochemical and rheological processes. Before joining Schmidt Ocean Institute, Thomas was with NOAA Ocean Exploration. During his time there, he coordinated expeditions to previously unexplored ocean regions and led the Ocean Exploration data team, where he constructed data pipelines to synthesize databases of exploration observations, supporting planning, prioritization, and analysis.
At Schmidt Ocean Institute, Thomas develops data solutions, infrastructure, pipelines and databases, to support the integration, analysis, and dissemination of collected data. He designs, builds, and manages cloud-based routing and containerized tools for ocean observation data pipelines. Thomas is interested in the full lifecycle of data systems – designing, building, optimizing, and maintaining them – to provide high-quality data efficiently and promptly, which in turn fosters scientific collaboration and broadens access to information that enhances our understanding of the deep sea.
