I come originally from New Zealand where I received my PhD in Psychology from Waikato University working within the Animal Behaviour and Welfare Research Centre, with A/Profs Foster & Temple. In 2003 I moved to Australia and took up a Lectureship at Central Queensland University, now a Professor I have developed a comprehensive research program over the past 17 years broadly investigating Human-Animal Interaction, covering topics such as potential links between personality factors (especially empathy), interpersonal violence and the treatment of animals through to community attitudes regarding farm animal welfare and suitable penalties for individuals convicted of animal cruelty offenses. As well as publishing in academic outlets I am committed to delivering ‘real world’ outcomes from my research and regularly speak at community events for the RSPCA (Qld), am part of the ‘Voices of Influence’ campaign for WSPA (Aus) and assist non-profit community with program evaluations.

I am a member of the Australian Animal Studies Group, the Queensland Centre for Domestic & Family Violence, the Appleton Institute and a Charter Scholar Member of the Animals & Society Institute (USA).  I regularly review for Anthrozoos, Journal of Applied Animal Welfare, Human-Animal Interaction Bulletin and a number of international journals in Psychology and Education.

My teaching philosophy, like my research, centers on engaged and inclusive practice - regardless of whether I am teaching a large introductory course, smaller advanced courses or supervising Honours and RHD students.