Researcher biography

I graduated from The University of Queensland Gatton Campus in 1994, taking my first position within the School of Veterinary Science in 1994. I am an experienced Veterinary Technical Officer, qualified Veterinary Nurse and Workplace Trainer and Assessor. I have a strong background in animal husbandry and welfare, behaviour, and ethics with more than 25 years' experience in varied animal and veterinary research paradigms. Following 18 years as Manager of the Clinical Studies Centre (CSC) within the School of Veterinary Science, I moved into an academic position and was appointed Academic Program Coordinator for the Bachelor of Veterinary Technology degree at UQ (2013 - 2019). Concurrently, I held the position of Director of the CSC from 2013 – 2018. I teach primarily into the BVetTech and BVSc programs but also contribute to several other animal-related programs at the UQ Gatton Campus. My passion for teaching, and commitment to instil a desire in all students to embrace life-long learning underpins my teaching and mentoring philosophy.

Myspeciality research areas include the psychology of human – animal relationships, animal behaviour and animal-related occupational trauma and healing. Having lived experience of occupational trauma and compassion fatigue, I present extensively in these subject areas as well as in psychological wellbeing and emotional intelligence. Further to presentations, I also provide interactive, thought-provoking seminars and workshops within all sectors of animal-related industries and occupations.