معرفی
Dr. Jessica Oliva is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychology at James Cook University, Townsville campus, within the College of Healthcare Sciences. She is an active researcher and educator specializing in human-animal interactions, animal conservation, and psychological aspects of pet ownership. Dr. Oliva is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Tropical Biology and Conservation at JCU and welcomes expressions of interest from HDR students.
- PhD in Psychology, Monash University (2015)
- Post-Doctoral Fellow, Institute of Research in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology, France
- Master of Science in Tropical Biology and Conservation (in progress), James Cook University
Her research focuses on the psychological and neurobiological dimensions of human-animal bonds, particularly involving dogs. Key areas include oxytocin’s role in bonding, mindfulness in human-dog interactions, attachment styles, speciesism, and the impact of pets on mental health during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also explored public perceptions of assistance dogs, dog welfare, and pet owner connectedness.
Dr. Oliva’s recent publications (2022–2024) reflect a strong trend in interdisciplinary research combining psychology, animal welfare, and public health. Her work frequently appears in journals such as Anthrozoos, Animals, and Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science. Themes include the mental health benefits of dog ownership, mindfulness with animals, and societal attitudes toward working dogs, demonstrating a consistent focus on applied psychological science in human-animal contexts.
- Federation of Neuroscience (FENS) Young Investigator Award (2014)
- International Society for Anthrozoology Travel Award (2014)
- Monash Research Graduate School Travel Award (2012)
- Australian Postgraduate Award (2011)
Dr. Oliva has supervised HDR students, including on a project related to psychedelic harm reduction in Australia. She has held prior academic roles at Monash University as a Lecturer and Senior Online Instructor, and research positions at the Parent-Infant Research Institute and the Institute of Social Neuroscience. She has not received mention of external grant funding in the provided text. She leads research in human-animal interaction and is developing methodological tools like the Pet Owner Connectedness Scale (POCS). Her work bridges clinical, social, and cognitive psychology with practical applications in animal welfare and mental health.
