SHARK Lab (Study of Human–Animal Relations at Kent) is an internationally recognised research centre dedicated to the psychological and behavioural science of human–animal relations. Led by Dr Kristof Dhont and based in the School of Psychology at the University of Kent, the lab seeks to understand why people think and behave as they do toward animals, and how evidence-based interventions can promote more ethical, sustainable, and compassionate societies.

Our work combines fundamental research on attitudes, identities, values, and ideologies relating to animals with applied research on behaviour change, public policy, and animal advocacy. We collaborate with researchers, charities, advocacy organisations, and policymakers to generate knowledge with real-world impact.

Our research focuses on four broad themes:

• Developing and evaluating behaviour change interventions, communication strategies, and advocacy initiatives that encourage more ethical and sustainable choices.
• Investigating the psychology of speciesism, animal exploitation, meat consumption, veganism, and dietary change.
• Understanding the psychological, social, cultural, and societal factors that shape attitudes toward animals, animal welfare, and animal rights.
• Exploring the links between human–animal relations and broader social issues, including prejudice, discrimination, environmental sustainability, and social justice.