Professor Louise Thomas

For the past 30  years, my research has been driven by the intriguing question of why people with similar weight and height have varying risks of metabolic disease. This pursuit has led to the creation and implementation of innovative techniques based on whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS). These techniques serve as non-invasive tools for developing precision phenotyping as a means of determining optimal health. 

An essential aspect of my work has been my involvement in creating appropriate methods for data analysis. This process has evolved from manual analysis to implementing state-of-the-art deep learning methodologies, enabling us to conduct automated analysis on large-scale population datasets.

I became a part of the University of Westminster in October 2014. Since then, I have played a significant role in establishing and managing the Research Centre for Optimal Health (ReCOH), and more recently, the Health Data Sciences Research Group. In 2022, I took on the responsibility of Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange for the School of Life Sciences.

A significant part of my research career has been dedicated to industrial collaboration, with projects supported by a diverse range of partners including Calico LLC, Perspectum Diagnostics, AMRA, Antidote LDN and The Guy Family Foundation.

My work has primarily centred on advancing magnetic resonance (MR) techniques for detailed phenotyping. Initially focused on developing MRI methods to map adiposity and ectopic fat in obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), my research has since expanded to encompass precision phenotyping of all organs and tissues. In parallel, I have been developing and validating cost-effective alternatives to MRI—such as advanced technologies, blood marker-derived indices, and algorithmic approaches—to serve as proxies for visceral and liver fat content.

This research has led to a close association with the UK Biobank imaging study and has fostered successful industrial partnerships aimed at enhancing methods for quantifying tissue and organ volumes and composition from abdominal MR images. These efforts continue to enrich the depth and breadth of health metrics derived from imaging data.

In addition, I maintain a strong interest in quantum biology and collaborate closely with colleagues at the Guy Foundation Quantum Biology and Bioenergetics Laboratory.

For details of all my research outputs, visit my WestminsterResearch profile.