I previously worked in industry, firstly as a zoo keeper before moving to a zoo education role at Colchester Zoo. I have a MSc degree in Animal Behaviour from Exeter University, where I undertook my dissertation research on the impact on environment enrichment on a herd of Rothschild giraffes.
My specific research interests are in the social organisation of giraffe and flamingos within a zoo environment, as well as in behavioural indicators of animal welfare state. I have developed strong links with Marwell Wildlife and have helped develop a long-term giraffe research project between them and Sparsholt. I have a PhD in Animal Behaviour, an MSc in Wild Animal Biology and a BSc (Hons) in Animal Science
I have a Masters’ in Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training and a keen interest in agricultural and livestock science
I hold a BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management, qualified as a Veterinary Nurse in 2008 (NVQ 3) and am a registered veterinary nurse with the RCVS. I also hold an RCVS Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing gained in 2014, specialising in medical and critical care nursing.
Whilst completing my studies and research I have also worked in various areas of the equine industry from riding schools, equine welfare sanctuaries, flat racing stud, embryo transfer centre and an Olympic Event yard, giving me industrial experience and knowledge to portray in my teaching.
I am a lecturer on Sparsholt’s BSc/FdSc Animal Management and Zoo Biology degrees and teach on topics including genetics, behaviour and zoo animal husbandry. Prior to lecturing at Sparsholt, I gained experience at ZSL London and Whipsnade zoos, and Beale Wildlife Park. I have developed strong links with several zoo collections…
I am a zoologist/ecologist with a specific interest captive and wild animal management. My masters research investigated social and environmental factors on the behaviour of captive western colobus monkeys. During my PhD I studied invasive deer ecology, including genetic and geographic modelling as well as the ecological uses of camera traps.