Rachel Thoms
Technical Specialist
Rachel is a Technical Specialist on the Ocean Program's Data Team, dedicated to harnessing the power of data to bridge the gap between local communities and ocean decision-makers. Her work centers on participatory data generation with coastal communities, including ongoing projects with artisanal fishing communities in southern Mozambique. With a background in data science and Geographic Information Systems, Rachel supports local practitioners and experts to co-produce, analyze, and communicate insights on ocean use and dependence.
Rachel also contributes to research, data and geospatial analysis, and visualizations on other projects including the Systems Change Lab and Ocean Watch.
Rachel holds a B.S. Biology with a specialization in Environmental and Biological Conservation and Computer Science from the University of Virginia. Prior to her current role, she was a Peace Corps Volunteer and Fulbright Student Researcher in Mozambique. Rachel joined WRI as an intern in 2021.
Projects
Ocean Watch
Launch PlatformLaunch Platform Visit ProjectThe Ocean Watch open data platform delivers science to policy makers developing sustainable ocean economies and operationalizing integrated ocean management.
Part of OceanSystems Change Lab
Launch PlatformLaunch Platform Visit ProjectMonitoring, learning from and accelerating the transformational changes required to protect both people and the planet
Part of Climate