Ben McAnoy
MR BEN MCANOY
Queen's University Belfast
Contributes to work packages 3, 4, 5 and 7, by aiming to quantify the risks of zoonotic parasites, and the effects of interventions to reduce public area contamination with zoonotic parasites from pets, including through targeted antiparasitic treatment and prevention of dog fouling.
Currently a PhD researcher at Queen's University Belfast in the School of Biological Sciences, in collaboration with by ESCCAP, I investigate the intricate role of pet behaviour in parasite transmission and zoonotic risk. My key research questions include how can behavioural risk factors be reliably measured and quantified, how does personality correlate with behavioural risk factors, can personality predict the likelihood of finding parasites in pets, and to what degree does owner behaviour influence companion animal parasite risk? With a solid foundation in animal behaviour and welfare, complemented by a Master's degree in the field, I strive to bridge the gap between animal cognition and practical welfare applications.
Outside of academia, I am an avid hiker, photographer, and writer, pursuits that reflect my deep appreciation for the natural world and storytelling. These interests not only enrich my personal life but also inspire my professional endeavours, providing a holistic approach to my research and its real-world applications.
