‘Walk on the wild side’ with Harry Gill Evolution Education Trust PhD Scholar

Bridging Evolutionary Science and Animal Welfare

“During my MSc Zoo Conservation Biology at Manchester Met I worked closely with the species biology and conservation research group. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and felt supported throughout the process. This inspired me to go on to conduct my own PhD research project, Walk on the wild side, under the supervision of Dr Charlotte Brassey.

“Working in public facing roles with zoos throughout my career has given me the passion to demystify research on the evolutionary history of animals through audience engagement. In particular, I am keen to convey how ‘blue-sky’ evolutionary biology can translate into practical and actionable welfare solutions for captive animals. I aim to answer two questions: are humans more sensitive to the motion of domestic dogs or wild canid species? And are pet-owners, vets and zookeepers more attuned to dog motion than those with less experience around dogs?

“Ultimately, I hope to increase the public’s trust in evolutionary science and contribute to the wider message conveying the importance of zoos for both scientific research, and more broadly, societal wellbeing.”

From Research to Outreach

“Reflecting on my journey at Manchester Met, many memorable moments stand out. I thoroughly enjoyed presenting my research findings at the SEB conference, 2023 and at the Measuring Behaviour conference in Aberdeen, 2024. I found my long-term project coaching and advising students how to enhance their science communication and international skills at Cheadle Hulme High School to be incredibly rewarding. Recently, I exhibited at the Manchester Museums ‘Wild Researchers’ night, attended by more than 600 visitors. My exhibit presented the first chapter of my PhD. Much to the enjoyment of our visitors, I wore a dog costume and attached retroreflective markers to my bony landmarks to demonstrate the portable motion-capture system. The evening was filled with engagement and I’m thrilled that so many found the evolution of motion perception to be a fascinating subject. 

“Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to have projects confirmed with several zoological collections to conduct a range of outreach activities for primary school groups and visitors. This time next year, I plan to deliver papers at multiple international conferences. I am also eager to progress the final year of my PhD, working towards submitting my thesis - a milestone I look forward to achieving. 

“Working on my PhD would not have been possible had it not been for the Evolution Education Trust’s support. I am especially fortunate to have the opportunity to explore several areas of research that truly interest me. I am incredibly grateful to Evolution Education Trust for investing in my PhD research and in me.”