
Thomas started his career at the LV Prasad Eye Institute as a biostatistician. After moving to Australia, he completed his PhD in clinical epidemiology and biostatistics in 2003. His research was on the statistical modelling of corneal infiltrative events associated with contact lens wear. Currently at the Brien Holden Vision Institute, his work focusses on statistical modelling of ocular events, ocular comfort and myopia progression. He has contributed significantly to design and analysis of large population based studies such as Andhra Pradesh Eye Disease study, National contact lens penetrance study in Australia and NZ, several myopia progression trials in China and cross sectional surveys in south-east Asia. He is currently co-investigator of myopia multi-ethnic study. He has co-authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications in the ocular and contact lens field. Beyond statistical analysis, he designed and managed the development of a comprehensive data management system for optometry research, which is currently used in Australia, China, Vietnam and India.