Research Director. Scientific Coordinator of the Unit of Cognitive Primatology & Primate Center of the ISTC-CNR
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Phone: +39 06 3221437
Fax: +39 06 3217090
Address: Unit of Cognitive Primatology and Primate Center
Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies
National Research Council
Via Aldrovandi 16 b - 00197 Roma
Short bio
Pursuing an early passion for animal behaviour, I got a degree and then a PhD in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Rome. Since then, I kept studying primate behaviour in several different species. I conduct my research at the CNR Primate Center, hosted by the Bioparco in Rome, and in a variety of other captive and field settings in collaboration with colleagues in several countries. My research interests led me to apply a variety of methods, ranging from behavioural observations and experiments, to meta-analyses of published research and computer modelling. I regularly supervise students for their Master or PhD thesis, and I have published about 110 papers in scientific journals and books.
Research interests
I have a broad interest in animal social behaviour, with a special (but not exclusive) focus on primates. My research investigates how monkeys manage their social relationships, exchange cooperative behaviours, and raise their infants. A special attention is given to the emotional and cognitive basis of social behaviour, exploring what monkeys understand of their own social relationships, and if/how they "plan" their social interactions.
