Allison B. Kaufman

My main research interests are in comparative cognition and what it can tell us about the conditions conducive to the evolution and development of these cognitive abilities in both humans and non-humans.  My training is in biology, ecology, and neuroscience, however, I work with many psychologists (including my husband and in-laws), so I am especially fond of cross disciplinary methodologies.  Current research projects and interests include –

— Measurement of intelligence in primates. This includes the application of cutting edge, human based psychometric techniques to animal data.  I am hoping to expand this work to other species, including rodents, marine mammals, and parrots.

— Creativity and innovation in animals.  I am interested in the use of human creativity measures to examine abilities, and how the ability to innovate would be an adaptive advantage.

— Cognitive traits in marine mammals.  I am interested in constructs such as personality, creativity, and intelligence in marine mammals and how these might be measured in an Aquarium based setting.

— Other issues in zoos and aquariums.  I have a general interest in the zoo and aquarium community and it’s impact on conservation, education, and research.

 

— I also maintain a side interest in critical thinking and (the fight against) pseudoscience