Mr Thom Clough
Research Officer
Overview
I am a PhD student at Bangor University, focusing on the future compound hazards of coastal flooding. My research is dedicated to understanding and predicting the complex interactions between coastal flooding and environmental factors under various climate change scenarios. This involves extensive coastal model development using Delft3D, a sophisticated tool for simulating hydrodynamic, sediment transport, and water quality processes in coastal and estuarine environments.
Current Projects
INVEST - Environment Agency
I am currently working on a project with the Environment Agency to model the entire English coastline and tidal rivers. This project aims to investigate changes in water quality under present conditions and future climate scenarios. By developing predictive models, we can better understand the potential impacts of climate change on coastal water quality and inform mitigation strategies.
PATHSAFE - Food Standards Agency
In addition to my PhD research, I recently served as the lead modeller in a multi-disciplinary team at Bangor University. We are developing predictive models to study pathogen dispersal in the coastal waters of North Wales. This project integrates various research methodologies to enhance our understanding of microbial contamination and its effects on marine environments.
Skills and Expertise
- Coastal Modelling: Proficient in developing and analyzing coastal hydrodynamic and water quality models using Delft3D.
- GIS and Spatial Analysis: Experienced in the principles and application of GIS and spatial analysis techniques.
- Statistical Modelling: Applied knowledge of R and MATLAB for statistical interpretation and modelling.
- Scientific Communication: Confident in oral presentations, scientific writing, and creating conference posters.
- Research Techniques: Extensive experience in coastal surveying, data analysis, culturing and processing biological samples, and microscopy.
Previous Experience
The Shellfish Centre
As a Coastal Modelling Research Assistant, I developed a new hydrodynamic model to assess the impact of river and wastewater discharges on microbial water quality along the North Wales coast. This role involved producing detailed reports and analyses to support environmental management decisions.
Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies (IECS)
In my role as a Remote Sensing/GIS Research Assistant, I developed climatology time-series charts and exceedance plots using online remote sensing data. This work provided critical insights for clients on environmental trends and patterns.
Education
- MSc Marine Environmental Management (University of Hull, 2019 - Distinction)
- BSc (Hons) Marine Biology & Coastal Management (Lancaster University, 2018 - First Class)
Employment
- PATHSAFE: Coastal Modelling Lead
- Shellfish Centre: Coastal Modelling Research Assistant
- IECS: Remote Sensing Research Assistant
- MBA: Research Assistant
My research and professional experiences have equipped me with a robust skill set and a comprehensive understanding of coastal and marine environments. I am committed to advancing our knowledge of coastal processes and contributing to the development of effective environmental management strategies.