Thomas Cooper-Johnson

Dr Thomas Cooper-Johnson is a Lecturer at the University of Newcastle's School of Architecture and Built Environment within the College of Engineering, Science and Environment. His expertise lies in disaster resilience, construction management, and humanitarian aid effectiveness. He coordinates courses such as Government Approaches to Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Resilience Economics, emphasizing proactive strategies to mitigate risks for vulnerable populations.

Education: PhD in Disaster Management (University of Newcastle), Bachelor of Construction Management, and Master of Disaster Preparedness & Reconstruction, all from the same institution.

Research Focus: Thomas investigates disaster vulnerability reduction for refugees and displaced communities, particularly in South Asia and the Pacific. His work includes improving disaster waste management through collaborations with the Pacific Environmental Programme (SPREP) and enhancing flood resilience in Australia via partnerships with local councils and emergency services.

Grants & Awards: He has secured over $433k in funding for projects like Pacific disaster waste guidelines and Hunter Valley flood resilience studies. Notable awards include the 2021 CESE Community Engagement Excellence Award and 2023 Outstanding Contribution to Teaching.

Teaching & Supervision: Currently supervising three PhD students on topics including incremental housing in disaster reconstruction and law's role in climate change initiatives. Coordinates courses across construction management, architecture, and disaster resilience disciplines.

Key Collaborations: Works with NGOs like Save the Children, SPREP, and local agencies such as the Rural Fire Service to implement community-centric disaster preparedness strategies.