I’m a researcher studying what makes dogs happy. I spent over a decade working in animal shelters and with working dogs before turning to research, and these days I’m based at the University of Melbourne with a team focused on Happy Dog Science. We’re figuring out what dogs actually need to live their best lives with us. It turns out the science of a wagging tail includes animal behaviour, physiology, human psychology, a bit of technology, and a lot of curiosity. We study companion puppers and working K9s – they’re all good dogs. I love getting research out of journals and into your walkies, so come tell me about your dog.
Research keyword/s: Dog behaviour
About the BEAKER STREET ROVING SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Each August, hundreds of Roving Scientists descend upon Hobart, filling up pubs and chatting to strangers as part of Beaker Street Festival. Discover a new world down the lens of microscope, and joining the least-boring bar conversations you’ve ever heard and these free (the chats – not the drinks) events.
For Scientists, Beaker Street’s Roving Scientist Program offers an excellent outreach, professional development, and networking opportunity. It’s the nerdiest and funnest way to share your research with the public, expand your network, and be inspired by leaders in all sectors of science and science communication.
