Alyx Elder

Alyx Elder is a Lecturer in Zoo Biology and Animal Behaviour at Manchester Metropolitan University, with nearly 20 years of industry experience in exotic zoo animal training. Her research focuses on pinniped sensory systems, AI-based kinematic tracking, and animal welfare, integrating fieldwork in zoos, aquariums, and museum collections. She is a BBSRC Discovery Fellow and member of the Conservation, Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour Research Group.

• Current PhD student: Katie Todd (Pinniped sensing strategies)
• Current MSc student: Emma Mcloughlin (South African Fur Seals)
• Completed MSc/BSc students: Donata Lorenzo, Mollie Taylor, Catherine Smith

Her work involves collaborations with institutions like Seaquarium Rhyl and Blackpool Zoo, and she actively contributes to public engagement via media appearances on BBC, ITV, and The ONE Show.