SAMS news room

A SAMS scientist who has been spearheading the development of eDNA in industry regulation and in assessing subsea communities has been made an Associate Professor by the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI).

Tom Wilding is a benthic ecologist, statistical modeller, and data specialist focused on advancing marine monitoring. He leads the development of innovative computer vision and eDNA approaches to assess communities on man-made structures and across the seabed.

Working at the intersection of research, policy, and regulation, Tom collaborates closely with industry and regulators in the renewables, oil and gas, and aquaculture sectors. With his team, he won at the Scottish Green Energy Awards 2025.

He has been given the title of Associate Professor of Innovative Environmental Assessment.

Associate Professor Wilding said: “I am delighted to be awarded the title of Associate Professor and look forward to further championing innovative methods for assessing communities growing on structures and the seabed.”

This was one of four titles announced by the university partnership, following approval by the UHI Academic Council. These appointments recognise their outstanding contributions to teaching, research and leadership within their respective fields.

The other researchers to be awarded titles, are: Antonia Thomas, Associate Professor of Art and Archaeology, UHI Archaeology Institute; Jen Harland, Associate Professor of Environmental Archaeology, UHI Archaeology Institute; and Michelle Beattie, Associate Professor of Healthcare Improvement, UHI Centre for Rural Health Sciences;

Professor Brian Williams, Deputy Principal Academic and Research, added: “I’m delighted to congratulate our new associate professors. Their work is grounded in collaboration with students, colleagues and communities, and reflects the real-world impact that defines UHI.

“Through their research and teaching, they are addressing meaningful challenges and creating positive change locally and beyond.”