Thomas' previous research focussed on synthetic organic chemistry, primarily methodology development in the building block strategy in fluorine chemistry (using trifluoropyruvates and hexafluoroacetone derived from perfluoropropenoxide) and utilising boronic ester homologation in the synthesis of fumonisins and AAL toxins – physiologically active secondary fungal metabolites. Thomas is generally interested in applications of fluorine in chemistry and while at the Dipartimento di Chimica, Materiali ed Ingegneria Chimica "Giulio Natta” he explored halogen bonding and molecular assembly. He is still keeping an eye on these topics.
However, his research interests are now largely related to education in chemistry, particularly laboratory based synthesis, green chemistry, modern technology and implementation of IT resources in practical classes; as well as problem and inquiry-based learning and improving practical assessment and feedback provision.
The demographic of populations worldwide is changing. People are living longer but with more years with affected by disability in the last two decades of life. The societal and economic consequences of this change are not being well managed. There is a lag in the development of health interventions and a need for rapid learning for future health and infrastructure planning. Typically, people in poorer economic situations are disproportionately affected by disability in later life.
Hearing loss and dementia: I lead multidisciplinary research focussed on hearing loss, the use of cochlear implants to restore hearing in otherwise deaf people and the interaction between hearing loss and dementia.
My focus is understanding cellular mechanisms in these conditions and also how the learning and methodologies used to investigate this can be applied across discipline boundaries. I am driving the implementation of data science methodologies for improved management of people who hear with cochlear implants and for the identification of early indicators of cognitive decline. I am championing the engagement of patients in research and as ambassadors to increase awareness of healthcare interventions amongst hard to reach and marginalised communities.
