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Thomas is a doctoral student working in the Smith lab under Drs. Smith & Campbell. He grew up in Germany and Bolivia, but has been living and studying in the United States since the mid-90s. He received an M.S. from Southeastern Louisiana University, where he studied systematics and herpetology under Dr. Brian Crother. He also holds a B.S. and an M.B.A. from the University of New Orleans in Management Information Systems from a previous life. Thomas is generally interested in the phylogenetic relationships, historical biogeography, and trait evolution of advanced snakes (Colubroidea). His current research focuses on the systematics of dispholidine snakes, an interesting group of arboreal colubrids that are found in sub-Saharan Africa. He also works on a Central American clade of coral snakes (Micrurus), and is involved in an NSF-funded project that studies the herpetological diversity of Mexico. His field experience encompasses work in North and Central America, and Africa. Aside from his academic interests in snakes, he is also involved in conservation and education, and frequently gives talks to interested groups. Thomas further participates in various legislative aspects, and played a key role in implementing a practical permit system for keeping dangerous snakes in Louisiana, as part of the Louisiana Reptile and Amphibian Task Force.
