Our Science
The science behind better people decisions
Over 45 years of people science and research, validated by the British Psychological Society and European Federation of Psychologists' Associations.
People science for the real world
At Thomas we turn trusted insight into better hiring, stronger leadership and more connected teams — with science you can rely on and AI you can trust.
Validated science
From DISC and the Big Five to cognitive ability and trait emotional intelligence, we choose our assessment models for their reliability, validity and relevance to performance at work. We use these established psychological models because they are proven, widely used and built to stand up in real workplace settings.
We also ensure our assessments are BPS accredited and built in line with EFPA standards – a level of scientific rigour not every provider meets. That means insight you can trust, grounded in science and designed to work where it matters most.
Human-first, ethical AI coaching
Our AI, Thom, is designed to support managers in the moments that matter, helping them communicate clearly, give feedback and handle challenges with confidence.
Built on validated behavioural and psychological science, we start with how people actually think, feel and respond at work - not just patterns in data. Then our psychologists vet all AI outputs to ensure any advice your people see is factual, useful, and ethical. This human-first approach helps reduce bias, support fair and consistent decisions, and ensure guidance reflects real behaviour rather than generic AI outputs.
Exclusive psychology research
The Connection Model
Developed through extensive research into how people experience work, the Connection Model is our proprietary psychologist-validated framework for measuring the factors behind engagement - not just the outcome itself.
Most organisations track engagement. The Connection Model goes deeper, identifying the six dimensions that shape how people feel, behave and perform day to day. By measuring connection directly, it gives leaders a clearer, more actionable view of what's driving performance, trust and retention across their teams.
Developed by Thomas, and directly linked to retention and performance, it moves you from reporting how people feel to understanding why, and what to do next.
Our team
Our people science is shaped by a team of psychologists, researchers and practitioners who care about how work really feels day to day. Led by Stephen Cuppello, we combine deep expertise with practical insight - turning robust research into tools that help you understand your people and make better decisions every day.
Science Advisory Board
Our external advisory board includes leading academics and practitioners in psychometrics, organisational psychology, and AI ethics — guiding our roadmap and research agenda.
Behind the science
We're always exploring what drives people at work. Discover our latest research and insights from the world of people science.
The truth about AI and personality tests: can it really fake results?
Where does the candidate's effort stop and AI take over? We explore whether AI can genuinely fake personality test results — and what it means for hiring.
AI and psychological safety
Can AI build trust? We look at how science-backed AI strategies create psychological safety and empower teams to reach peak performance.
Better with age: How workplace connection peaks in older employees
Older employees can be some of the most engaged and connected people in your organisation. We explore why workplace connection strengthens with age — and what businesses can learn from it.
What's coming up
See our science in action with presentations, workshops and events from the Thomas science team.
1 May 2026
Conference panel
Beyond engagement: Validation of a novel measure of employee connection
Panel exploring why engagement surveys are failing to address the root causes of disconnection in modern workplaces. Drawing on our research into work psychology, hybrid work, and AI-mediated sociality.
Time: 10:30 AM · 50 min
Speakers: John Cooper, Kira van Niekerk, Stephen Cuppello
Location: 203-4, SIOP Annual Conference, New Orleans
2 May 2026
Presentation
Beyond engagement: Validation of a novel measure of employee connection
Learn how our team created the Connection Model, helping organisations to measure the social and relational factors that influence connection at work.
Time: 10:30 AM · 50 min
Speakers: Kira van Niekerk
Location: Exhibit hall, SIOP Annual Conference, New Orleans
