Welcome to the
Comparative Cognition and Cognitive Biology Laboratory
Our laboratory uses an interdisciplinary and comparative approach to the study cognitive evolution and animal behavior. We use experimental methods to investigate topics such as spatial cognition, social cognition, concept learning, animal welfare, and canine cognition. By studying a wide variety of species, we aim to better understand the brain, behaviour, and evolution to further basic and applied research.
Spatial Cognition
Spatial cognition refers to how an individual encodes the properties of its environment in order to orient and navigate.
Social Cognition
Living in large social groups has traditionally been thought to be the primary evolutionary precursor to complex cognitive abilities.
Canine Cognition
Dogs are an integral aspect of many people’s lives. Indeed, dogs have evolved side-by-side with humans for tens of thousands of years.
Animal-Human Interactions
Adopting a One Welfare approach, we study the interdisciplinary connection between animal welfare, human wellness, and environmental health.
Our Vision
In our quest to integrate our knowledge of animal cognition, behaviour and welfare, we are committed to providing interdisciplinary community-based experiential learning and research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, and support opportunities for women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous peoples.
Territory Acknowledgement
The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation. We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration