Human Animal Science

Human Animal Science is a regular podcast hosted by Tim Adams and Mia Cobb that takes a scientific view of the world of humans and animals.

Human Animal Science, also known as anthrozoology, is a growing multidisciplinary field of enquiry, and one that produces fascinating topics.

Recent podcasts, articles, and research

Zooarchaeology

Zooarchaeology: bones to answer beastly questions

Human Animal ScienceAug 26, 20142 min read

This episode of Human Animal Science will change the way you look at a chicken wishbone, forever! Naomi Sykes is an Associate Professor in Zooarchaeology (the study of human-animal relationships in archaeology) at the University of Nottingham, UK. Her research focuses on human-animal-landscape relationships and how they inform us about the structure, beliefs and practices of past societies. Naomi’s approach in the exciting area of zooarchaeology has wide application across different geographical…

Why cats like boxes

Wild behaviour: the science of why cats like boxes

Human Animal ScienceAug 14, 20143 min read

Sandra McCune holds a PhD that examined the temperament and welfare of caged cats as well as qualifications in vet nursing and zoology. She knows the answer to why cats like boxes, and the science behind it. In her current…

What is anthrozoology

Positive psychology: identifying how we thrive

Human Animal ScienceAug 1, 20142 min read

Dr. Pauleen Bennett is Director of Regional Operations in the School of Psychological Science at La Trobe University. Pauleen combines her academic work at La Trobe with a range of community activities designed to improve human-companion animal relationships. She leads a…

Animal personality

Sam Gosling: Animal personality

Human Animal ScienceJul 1, 20142 min read

Sam Gosling is a psychologist based at the University of Texas at Austin in the USA. His research interests include social perception, new methods of data collection online and cross-species work, where he examines how animals can inform theories of personality…

Dogs in Aboriginal communities

Healthy communities: dogs and people

Human Animal ScienceJun 12, 20142 min read

Sophie Constable, Education Officer at Animal Management in Rural and Remote Indigenous Communities (AMRRIC), has training as a veterinarian, in Indigenous education, and in public health. She has worked in the field in pet education programs in urban, rural and remote…


Brought to you by:

The Australian Anthrozoology Research Foundation

The Australian Anthrozoology Research Foundation is a registered charity that funds research into the relationship between animals and humans.

Their mission is to promote the understanding and humane treatment of animals by supporting scientific research that explores the positive effects of their companionship on human health and well-being. They believe that this understanding can help us to create a better world for both animals and people.

Anthrozoology Research Group

The Australian Anthrozoology Research Group is a registered charity that promotes the study of human-animal interactions. They support research into the benefits that come from interacting with animals, be it in a therapeutic, working, or leisure capacity.

The foundation also aims to educate the public about the importance of human-animal interaction and how it can improve our quality of life. They do this through running events, such as lectures and conferences, and by publishing papers and articles on the topic.