Richard Thomas

Independent Expert in Natural Resource Management & ELD Scientific Advisor

Dr. Richard Thomas is an expert in natural resource management, specializing in integrated soil, water, and nutrient management in crop-livestock systems. His career includes roles such as Manager of the Food, Land, and Ecosystem Program at UNU-INWEH, Assistant Director of UNU-INWEH (2008-2014), Director of the Natural Resources Management Programme at ICARDA (2001-2008), and Program Leader at the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) in Colombia for 12 years. He holds a B.Sc. and Ph.D. in botany and microbiology from the University of Wales, UK. He is a scientist in agronomy and agriculture, with over 120 refereed journal articles, 41 book chapters, and four co-edited books. His research spans agronomy, agricultural plant science, soil science, agricultural economics, and rural development. He is actively involved in capacity building in the Global South, working with academics, NGOs, research institutes, and government ministries to advance natural capital accounting and land restoration.

Learn more about Richard Thomas here: Richard Thomas | United Nations University