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I currently work as an advisor and consultant in the blockchain space, collaborating with innovative teams and investors focused on gaming, NFTs, and to an extent the Polkadot ecosystem. My views are fairly chain agnostic and so when I consult with teams I'm picking the right technology that works for the them. Not all blockchains are equal, so it is worth aiming for the right solution for a given problem.

Previously, I was part of the Web3 Foundation team, where I managed the grants program. The foundation lead the stewardship of the Polkadot Network, a next-generation blockchain platform.

I'm deeply passionate about exploring cutting-edge technologies, particularly blockchain and AI, and continuously seek opportunities to engage with innovative projects at the forefront of these fields.

Professional Background

  • Blockchain Advisor & Consultant (2020 - Present)
    • Advising teams and investors in blockchain and gaming.
  • Various Roles + Grants Manager, Web3 Foundation (2018 - 2020)
    • Established and managed the grants program to foster the growth of the Polkadot and Kusama ecosystems.
  • Security Consultant, Portcullis / Cisco (2015 - 2018)
    • Worked as a penetration tester and GRC consultant.
  • MSc, Information Security (2014 - 2015) - Royal Holloway, University of London
  • PhD, Astrophysics (2007 - 2011) - University of Glasgow
  • MPhys, Physics and Astronomy (2002 - 2007) - University of Edinburgh

Future Directions

I'm particularly interested in AI plus the intersections of blockchain, gaming, and security. The potential for decentralized gaming platforms that prioritizes player ownership and security is immense.

Feel free to reach out if you'd like to discuss any of these topics or potential collaborations!

Contact

Best way to contact me is via LinkedIn, although email can also work:

hello@. edthomson .com