About
Dr Jason Gilchrist is a Lecturer in the School of Applied Sciences at Edinburgh Napier University. His work focuses on animal behavior, conservation biology, and biodiversity research, with fieldwork conducted in Africa (Uganda, Madagascar, South Africa) and Scotland. He teaches courses in behavioral ecology, physiology, taxonomy, biodiversity, evolutionary ecology, and conservation at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
- PhD in Ecology from University of Cambridge
- BSc in Ecology from University of Edinburgh
Dr Gilchrist's research encompasses the social dynamics of animal species, stress physiology, and biodiversity conservation. His field research has examined reproductive skew and pup care in banded mongooses, cooperative breeding in grey mouse lemurs, group dynamics of chimpanzees, demographics of social spiders, stress physiology of large ungulates, and effects of wild boar on biodiversity. He has developed innovative approaches to wildlife management, including studies on rhino translocation techniques and mountain hare activity patterns in Scotland.
His publication record shows a strong focus on conservation biology, particularly rhino conservation, biodiversity assessment in Africa, and wildlife management strategies. Recent work includes the bii4africa dataset for biodiversity intactness estimates across Africa, research on pterosaur morphology, and analysis of illegal wildlife trafficking networks using DNA evidence. His work spans both traditional academic publishing and public engagement through articles in The Conversation and other popular science outlets.
- Stress Physiology of South African Ungulates project funded by Carnegie Trust for Universities of Scotland (£2500, 2013-2014)
- Factors Affecting Ungulate Physiology project funded by Carnegie Trust for Universities of Scotland (£2237, 2011-2013)
- Madagascar - social spider project funded by Carnegie Trust for Universities of Scotland (£2280, 2007-2009)
- SEPG - Social Spider project (£2524, 2007-2012)
- Cost and benefits of breeding Grey Mouse Lemur project funded by Carnegie Trust for Universities of Scotland (£1990, 2006-2008)
Dr Gilchrist supervises students in ecology and conservation biology research. His work with the Animal and Plant Science Research Group and Centre for Conservation and Restoration Science at Edinburgh Napier University connects his research to practical conservation applications. His fieldwork often involves collaboration with local researchers and conservation organizations in Africa, focusing on understanding animal behavior to inform conservation strategies.
