Dr. Martin Thomas is a British historian and academic. He studied Modern History at Oxford University, graduating in 1985. He returned to Oxford for his graduate studies, earning his doctoral degree (D.Phil.) in 1991. Professor Thomas began his academic career in 1992 at the University of the West of England (Bristol). In 2003 he accepted a post in the history department of the University of Exeter. He is also the director of the Centre for the Study of War, State and Society. Professor Thomas is considered one of the leading academic specialists on French colonial history, colonial intelligence & security services, and the history of decolonisation.