Mrs Shelley Culpepper

I studied for my undergraduate degree in Zoology at Queen Mary University of London, followed by a postgraduate degree in Equine Science at the Royal Dick Veterinary School at the University of Edinburgh

My research interests are ethology, particularly the interspecific relationship and communication between human and horse.

It is commonly accepted among professional equestrians that horses are sensitive and can be affected by odours in their environment. Olfactory perception research in horses is scarce; however, a few studies have shown that the emission of some odours by humans is associated with the expression of certain types of corresponding emotions and behaviours in horses. My PhD work will investigate whether there is a unidirectional olfactory communication pathway that exists between humans and horses, and to what extent do horses perceive human olfactory signals? And if so, what are the implications to horse health and welfare?