Jing Zhou

In 2020, Jing embarked on her doctoral journey with the SPDC, with a focus on advancing animal environment and welfare design. A graduate of Michigan State University, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a Master of Science in Zoology, with a specialization in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, and Behavior (EEB). Jing’s fervor for zoo and welfare design has been fueled by her extensive collaboration with numerous Michigan zoos and a pivotal internship at PGAV Destinations, one of the nation’s premier zoo and aquarium design firms. As a zoology specialist there, she played a critical role in educating design teams on exhibit specifications and animal behavior. 

Jing has identified a significant gap in the industry: the lack of comprehensive standards and detailed policies for zoo and aquarium design. She advocates for a science-driven approach to design, aiming to create zoos and exhibits that not only meet the highest standards of animal welfare but also promote natural behavior and reproductive success among captive species. Her research is underpinned by the philosophy that a scientifically-informed environment is paramount to enhancing the welfare and sustainability of animals in human care.