Heather Hill

Heather Hill, Ph.D., is a Professor of Psychology at St. Mary’s University, specializing in marine mammal behavior and cognition. She earned her Ph.D. in experimental psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi with emphases in development, cognition, and marine mammal behavior. Her research focuses on belugas, bottlenose dolphins, and killer whales, investigating social development, play behavior, reproductive physiology, and cognitive abilities. She has collaborated globally with zoos, aquariums, and field researchers, emphasizing synergy between in-situ and ex-situ studies.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology (University of Southern Mississippi)

Research Interests:

• Social and cognitive development in marine mammals
• Animal welfare and enrichment strategies
• Comparative psychology across species
• Undergraduate research mentorship

Key Awards:

• Psychonomic Society Fellow (2017)
• Multiple St. Mary’s University research grants and fellowships
• Senior Faculty Undergraduate Mentoring Award (2019)

Her work bridges academic research and applied conservation, with over 100 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. She actively involves undergraduates in field and laboratory studies, fostering high-impact learning experiences.