My Background

My research as Senior Lecturer (Anglia Ruskin University and Cambridge University, 2021-date), Research Associate (Cambridge University, 2015-2022), PhD (Vienna University, 2012-2016), Research Assistant (Auckland University, 2011; Edinburgh Zoo roles, 2008-2010) and MSc (St Andrews University, 2010-2011) has primarily focused on examining the evolution of cognition, specifically in birds, non-human primates and humans (children and adults).

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​In my previous Leverhulme Trust funded Research Associate role, in Dr Lucy Cheke's CAMB Lab at Cambridge University, I tested the effects of COVID-19 on cognition in adults and children, using online experiments. In my two previous European Research Council funded Research Associate roles, in Prof Nicky Clayton's CCL Lab at Cambridge University, I tested cognition in humans and corvids (crow family), with a particular focus on self-control, behavioural flexibility, social learning and causal reasoning. Key aspects of my Vienna Science and Technology funded PhD in Cognitive Biology, in Prof Thomas Bugnyar's Corvid Lab at Vienna University, involved highlighting the critical role of individual differences, social context and development on cognition in wild and captive crows and ravens.

​In parallel, I have a strong background of skills, knowledge and practical experience in animal care, welfare, training and conservation, including roles at Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) Edinburgh Zoo as Avian Research Coordinator, Animal Keeper and Animal Trainer, animal conservation work in Uganda & Zambia and a Zoo Animal Management degree.