Dr Alex Schnell
Dr. Alex Schnell is a marine biologist and animal psychologist. Alex has worked at institutions such as the University of Cambridge and the Marine Biological Laboratory. She has also worked as a story consultant for various producers, from the BBC Natural History Unit and Wild Space to Silverback Films and more.
Alex has over 15 years of experience investigating diverse animal minds. She is a leading expert in understanding cephalopod (octopus, cuttlefish, squid) intelligence. Alex is especially well-known for her experimental work on self-control and episodic-like memory in cuttlefish, demonstrating that these invertebrates possess cognitive traits once thought to be exclusive to large-brained mammals. In addition to her experimental work, Alex has completed a range of high-profile works of other kinds, some theoretical (on animal consciousness), and some bearing on policy questions, education and outreach. The collaboration that led to UK legislation establishing new welfare protection for cephalopods and decapods is especially notable.