Thomas Barker

Thomas Barker, PhD is a Professor of Communication in the Graduate Program in Communication and Technology at the University of Alberta's Faculty of Arts, specifically within the English & Film Studies Department. He is also a Contributing Faculty member at the Peter Lougheed Leadership College. His research focuses on risk communication, public health, and community engagement, with notable projects including participatory action research in public health and pandemic risk communication models. He teaches courses like Risk Communication and Human Communication, emphasizing analytical tools for understanding communication contexts and public service.

Professionally, he has held roles such as Director of Technical Communication at Texas Tech University and advisor to the Society for Technical Communication (STC). His work integrates transformative learning principles and global education frameworks. He has contributed to initiatives like the Wellness Leadership Series and Advanced Citation in Leadership programs. His research collaborations include CIHR-funded projects on public health communication strategies.

Barker’s publications span technical documentation, communication theory, and interdisciplinary genomic studies. He emphasizes closing the loop in process development, advocating for iterative knowledge creation. While no formal awards are listed, his extensive advisory roles and academic contributions underscore his leadership in communication and technology fields.

His teaching philosophy aligns with Alan Gross’s emphasis on analytical rigor for public good, blending pedagogical innovation with real-world applications. He advises no listed students but actively engages in program development and grants related to leadership and public health communication.