Stefano Vaglio

Dr. Stefano Vaglio is a Reader in Animal Behaviour at the University of Wolverhampton, affiliated with the School of Life Sciences within the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He leads the Animal Behaviour & Wildlife Conservation research group and serves as Principal Investigator on multiple funded research projects, including the EU Erasmus+ InterZooMaster and the University’s Research Investment Fund project. He previously held a Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship at Durham University and maintains an honorary association with the Primatology Group there until 2021.

• PhD, Biological Anthropology (Primatology), University of Florence
• MS, Biological Sciences (Behavioural Neurobiology), University of Pisa
• FHEA, University of Wolverhampton

His research centers on primate sensory ecology, particularly chemical communication, and extends to zoo animal welfare, reproduction, and conservation. He employs interdisciplinary methods including semiochemistry, bioacoustics, endocrinology, and digital imaging. His work spans both captive primates in European zoos and field studies in Madagascar and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The recent publications reflect a strong focus on olfactory enrichment, fertility signalling, and welfare assessment in primates and other zoo animals. Trends include the use of synthetic scents to enhance breeding, non-invasive monitoring of hormonal and behavioural responses, and evaluating the impact of environmental changes such as zoo closures during the pandemic.

• 2018 Project Support Office's Bidding Excellence Award
• 2021 VC Award for Staff Excellence - Outstanding Contribution to Research
• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Dr. Vaglio has supervised several PhD students and postdoctoral fellows, including Emily Elwell, Rachel Sawyer, and Sara Fontani. He has secured significant grant funding from the European Commission, British Academy, and internal university sources, supporting research in primate communication, disease recognition, and conservation. He actively mentors students and integrates research into teaching.

He leads the Animal Behaviour & Wildlife Conservation research group and collaborates with institutions such as Garda Zoological Park, Durham University, and multiple European zoos. He is a member of the Steering Committee for the EU LIFE20 Northern Bald Ibis project and advises on conservation initiatives through InterLife ONLUS and other organizations.