Thomas Marriott

Thomas Marriott is a Researcher at Goldsmiths, University of London whose work bridges design practice and criminological inquiry. His research focuses on the intersection of design methodologies with police technology studies, particularly examining body-worn video cameras through ethnographic and design-led approaches.

Marriott's research interests center on how design practices can contribute to understanding policing technologies. He explores the concept of 'Design Things'—material objects like buttons, simulated police equipment, and publications—that serve as research devices to engage with police officers and elicit perspectives on technology use. His work draws connections between design, cultural criminology, and science and technology studies, emphasizing the ontological multiplicity of police technologies.

His publications reveal a consistent focus on innovative methodological approaches to studying police technology. Marriott's work demonstrates how design practices can introduce specific questions, matters of concern, and speculative scenarios into ethnographic research with police officers. His research suggests that body-worn cameras are enacted in multiple ways by police: as tools for professional and emotional security, in conjunction with other devices like TASERs, and as reinforcements of specific police cultures.

Marriott has presented his work at various academic venues including the Goldsmiths Centre for Contemporary Art, Kings College Cambridge, and the University of Gothenburg, demonstrating the interdisciplinary reach of his research across design, criminology, and technology studies communities.