Tom Hart

Dr. Tom Hart is a Senior Lecturer in Conservation and Ecology at the School of Biological and Medical Sciences, Oxford Brookes University. He specializes in behavioral landscape ecology within environmental change contexts, spanning population studies, conservation genetics, and technology-driven solutions like event cameras and drones.

• Teaches Animal Biology and Conservation BSc courses
• Leads MSc modules in Conservation Ecology
• Develops remote monitoring systems for extreme environments

His research focuses on Antarctic and sub-Antarctic marine predators, particularly penguins, using genetic analysis to map population structures and inform policy decisions on protected areas. Collaborations include Adrian Smith (Oxford), Gemma Clucas (Cornell), Heather Lynch (Stony Brook), and organizations like British Antarctic Survey and Natural England.

Recent projects funded by National Geographic Society and DEFRA (totaling £452,358) aim to enhance Southern Ocean predator conservation through camera networks and address avian flu risks. His work integrates citizen science via Penguin Watch and AI-driven analysis of remote sensing data.

Key publications emphasize spatio-temporal dynamics of penguin colonies, disease ecology, and climate change impacts on Southern Ocean species. Current studies explore mercury contamination, drone monitoring protocols, and adaptive evolution in penguins.