CV
Download the full CV as PDF: thomas-collins-cv.pdf
A condensed version follows. Recommendations and references are available on request — see also LinkedIn.
Profile
Analytical researcher and spatial data specialist with experience designing and delivering complex intelligence and risk-analysis projects using behavioural, environmental, demographic, and geospatial datasets. Skilled in statistical modelling, GIS, machine learning, and evidence-led analysis to support strategic planning and decision-making, with a strong understanding of data governance, ethical data use, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Current Position
Postdoctoral Researcher, Centre for Environmental Intelligence, University of Exeter (Oct 2025 – present)
- Designing and leading complex spatial and statistical analyses integrating behavioural, environmental, demographic, and remotely sensed datasets to support strategic environmental planning and evidence-led decision-making.
- Developing analytical frameworks to assess environmental risk, model the impacts of development scenarios on protected sites and communities, and identify future pressures relevant to long-term planning and policy.
- Producing technical reports, visualisations, methodology documents, and analytical briefings communicating complex findings to government agencies, local authorities, and interdisciplinary partners.
- Collaborating with Natural England, local planning authorities, and interdisciplinary research teams to deliver outputs aligned with national environmental policy frameworks.
Previous Experience
PhD Researcher, University of Exeter (Oct 2021 – Oct 2025)
- Designed advanced analytical workflows integrating mobile phone mobility data, app usage data, remote sensing, and machine learning to model urban behaviour, movement patterns, and spatial dynamics.
- Developed spatial and statistical modelling frameworks (Elastic Net, Random Forests, geographically weighted models) to identify drivers of inequality, vulnerability, and urban activity.
- Produced peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and technical outputs for technical, policy, and non-technical audiences.
Research Data Officer, Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust (Oct 2021 – Feb 2023)
- Managed sensitive clinical research datasets across haematological cancer studies; ensured accurate, timely, and compliant data management.
- Aligned data management practices with regulatory guidelines, Trust policies, and standard operating procedures under Good Clinical Practice.
- Supported research governance including ethics submissions, sponsor communications, and HRA compliance.
Education
- PhD in Computer Science, University of Exeter — Oct 2021 – Oct 2025. Research on urban environments, spatial inequality, environmental exposure, and urban vibrancy using computational social science and geospatial analysis.
- MSci (Hons) in Conservation Biology and Ecology, University of Exeter — Sep 2017 – May 2021. Specialised in spatial ecology, movement ecology, and environmental data analysis.
Technical Skills
- Data analysis & modelling: Python, R, statistical modelling, machine learning, spatial statistics, geospatial analysis, multivariate analysis
- Geospatial & remote sensing: OpenStreetMap, Google Earth Engine, remote sensing workflows, spatial data integration, GIS
- Visualisation & reporting: Jupyter, LaTeX, technical reporting, analytical visualisation, scientific documentation
- Development & workflow: GitHub, Conda, PyCharm, Overleaf, Visual Studio
- Cloud & command line: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Bash, PowerShell
Certifications
- Full Accredited Researcher under the Digital Economy Act 2017 (DEA) — Office for National Statistics
- Good Clinical Practice (GCP) — NIHR
- Information Governance and Data Security Awareness — NHS R&D Governance
- Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (LTHE) — AdvanceHE
Selected Publications & Talks
A live list is maintained at Publications and Talks, and on Google Scholar.