I am a professor of interdisciplinary social science at the University of the West of Scotland. My current work explores the powerful relationships between humans and animals. I’m particularly interested in how human-animal bonds can help address social challenges like loneliness, dementia, and recovery from substance use. Since 2018, my colleagues and I have been bringing together academics, practitioners, and communities to explore the role of animals in dementia science, policy and practice through the Multi-Species Dementia International Research Network. Beyond research, I put theory into practice as a therapy dog handler with Canine Concern Scotland, seeing firsthand how human-animal bonds can help transform lives.

I’m passionate about bringing debates on human-animal relationships into public spaces—whether that’s through research, the media, or unexpected places like street art. My article on Banksy’s animal murals for The Conversation is just one example of how I use cultural and artistic expressions to spark conversations about our responsibilities to other species. My work spans academic and public spaces, from my book Multi-Species Dementia Studies (Bristol University Press, with Dr Jack-Waugh & Prof Louise Ritchie) to collaborations with charities and policymakers exploring how multi-species relations can shape better futures.

You can find out more about my work on LinkedIn or explore my publications, including Multi-Species Dementia Studies.

• (PI) Jenkins N. Developing and Consilidating the Multi-Species Dementia International Research Network.  Royal Society of Edinburgh Research Network Grant. £20,000.

One Welfare approaches to tackling loneliness and social isolation in later life.

I am very keen to work with charities and non-profit organisations who are developing One Welfare solutions to issues of animal welfare and human wellbeing, especially in relation to ageing and later life.

Canine Concern Scotland (Therapet Programme)

I am passionate about social science research methods, and I have a particular interest in the use of vignettes within qualitative inquiry.  I am willing to offer course design, consultancy and one-off workshops in several aspects of social research, including research design, data collection and data analysis, and service evaluation.  To discuss your requirements, please email: [email protected].