Dr Sebastian Thomas is an interdisciplinary researcher with a background in climate strategy and environmental social science. His work examines human-nature relations – the interconnected economic, social, and policy dynamics of sustainability innovations, climate governance, and environmental management. Global change issues – including technology, climate and environment, new economic forces, social movements and conflicts, and resource constraints – present major challenges to traditional corporate cultures and governance models. At the same, these trends offer exceptional opportunities for innovation and transformation for resilient and sustainable future positioning and positive environmental and social outcomes.

Dr Thomas is a lecturer in the Office for Environmental Programs at the University of Melbourne, and affiliated with the Australia-Indonesia Centre, the Australia-Germany Climate-Energy College, and the School of Ecosystem and Forest Sciences. Prior to joining the University of Melbourne he was Education Program Manager at the International Energy Centre, coordinating the professional, interdisciplinary Master of Energy Studies, and lecturing on topics of energy policy, global change, and sustainability leadership. His research interests include vulnerability and resilience, ‘blue carbon’ in coastal ecosystems and its role in sustainable development, and the role of organizational culture and policy innovation in adapting to global challenges. Dr Thomas’ expertise crosses sustainability science, political ecology, management strategy, environmental economics, and social-ecological systems dynamics.