Fay Clark

Fay Clark is a Post Doctoral Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Life Sciences school. Specializing in animal cognition and welfare, she focuses on zoo-housed animals (particularly primates and cetaceans) and the impacts of anthropogenic noise on conservation efforts. Her work bridges experimental psychology and applied zoological research, emphasizing cognitive enrichment and ethical husbandry practices.

Education includes a PhD in Animal Cognition & Welfare from the Royal Veterinary College/ZSL, an MPhil in Human Evolutionary Studies from the University of Cambridge, and a BSc in Zoology from the University of Southampton. She also holds an MSc in Wild Animal Biology from Royal Veterinary College/ZSL.

Research interests span zoo animal acoustics, cognitive enrichment validation, behavioral informatics, and the application of human mental health concepts to animals. She collaborates with institutions like Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust and the University of Bristol on primate and cetacean cognition projects. Her editorial roles include positions at Animal Welfare and Animal Behavior & Cognition.

Publications focus on dolphin behavior, gorilla enrichment systems, and welfare metrics for marine mammals. Media engagement includes features in National Geographic, BBC Wildlife, and the New York Times. She actively contributes to conservation initiatives through IUCN Red List work and industry partnerships.

Awards include a Templeton Foundation Fellowship. Her research extends to technological advancements in behavioral monitoring and ethical frameworks for captive animal management.