Our Team

Anglo-American Reptile Research Lab logo with gecko and snake

Who we are

Behind every fantastic bit of research is an equally fantastic team. At the Anglo-American Reptile Research Lab, our dedicated team combines diverse skills and extensive research experiences to advance reptile welfare and research. Our team has robust experiences in experimental design, data analysis, and mentorship, contributing to high-quality studies that provide valuable insights into reptile behavior, cognition, and health with a lense for welfare. Collectively, we are committed to improving reptile care and positively impacting captive populations.

Meet Our Director

Meet our founder, Assistant Professor Erin Rickman. Erin's journey began in the UK, where she achieved an FdSc in Animal Science through the University of Brighton, a top-up BSc (Hons) in Applied Animal Behaviour and Welfare from the Royal Agricultural University, and is currently completing her Ph.D in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at the University of Lincoln, focusing on Leopard Geckos. Erin's dedication to her field is evident in her nearly four years of teaching at Plumpton College and her support in delivering lectures at the University of Lincoln. 

Erin has also received awards for her time spent in education and teaching. While studying at the RAU, she received an award for Top Student, and while teaching at Plumpton, she came runner-up for Teacher of the Year, as voted for by the students. In her early PhD career, Erin won awards for her research, such as 'Best Poster' at the University of Lincoln's Post-graduate Symposium in 2022 . 

Erin has many papers in preparation for and in the process of publication, which focus on enrichment for Leopard Geckos and supporting similar in Bearded Dragons. These papers include a range of cognitive and behavioral tests. Erin's research includes gaze following; discrimination between familiar and unfamiliar objects, faces and scents; handling; human-gaze impact; environmental preference; the impact of novelty and habituation for objects and environments; the impact of enrichment within the enclosure; enrichment use at different parts of the circadian rhythm; naturalistic enrichment; glucocorticoid analysis, parasite burden, and gut biome analysis. 

As of November 2024, Erin was invited and accepted a position to become a board member of the British Herpetological Society, one of the most historical and prestigious societies in the Herpetological industry. 

Although Erin's journey began in the UK, and she will continue supporting welfare efforts overseas, she looks forward to pursuing her dream job at Eckerd College and building a bright future for reptiles in the lab alongside her students in the USA.

You can see Erin's research profile here

You can see Erin's faculty page here

Meet the team

Animal Care & Research Assistant Lab Coordinator

Makkia Brockway

Hello! My name is Makkia. I am 22 years old and in my junior year at Eckerd College. My experience includes fieldwork as a herpetological data technician at a research station in the Peruvian Amazon. This photo is of me during fieldwork, partaking in a caiman survey! I have also worked with Zoo Tampa as a part of their herpetology team, where I assisted with captive animal care and behavioral training programs. I look forward to working and collaborating in a lab with people passionate about these unique animals! I plan to pursue behavioral research on reptiles and amphibians for my future career. 

I run the Animal Care and Research departments. My main responsibilities include managing daily animal care operations and ensuring compliance with welfare regulations. This involves supervising animal husbandry staff, developing and implementing care protocols, and maintaining accurate animal health and research data records. I also ensure the smooth running of the lab and oversee the management of the range of research tasks.

Media & Research Assistant Lab Coordinator

 Paige Davenport

Hi, I'm Paige Davenport, a senior majoring in animal studies with minors in biology and film. I have always had a passion for conserving animals and the environment and had the privilege to start my professional career at 17 as a zookeeper at Gulf Breeze Zoo. I continued at Busch Gardens, and have worked with Tampa Bay Watch, a vet hospital, and mentored at Clearwater Marine Aquarium. I've also done research in-situ and ex-situ with frogs, dolphins, and orangutans. In the summer, I care for orphaned rhinos in South Africa. I've worked as a production assistant on a soon-to-be-released National Geographic series and run an Instagram photography/videography account. I am excited to work alongside such a fantastic team in this lab and explore the amazing world of reptiles through research. I'm passionate about wildlife conservation and aspire to be a field biologist and filmmaker/explorer for National Geographic.

I run the Marketing and Relations, and Research departments. Mainly, I manage media communications and content, outreach initiatives through promotional events, and research dissemination by creating educational materials. I also oversee and support the creation of new relationships with external stakeholders such as zoos, universities, relevant pet owner-related groups, and societies.

Animal Collections Manager

Will Seedorf

Hey, I'm Will! I am excited to be a part of this lab because of all the information we can contribute to a part of the reptile-keeping field that is currently lacking. This research has incredible implications in a variety of spaces. I have previously worked with multiple AZA-accredited institutions and have had the opportunity to be a part of animal care teams responsible for marine mammals, reptiles, big cats, birds of prey, and other animals. In the future, I would love to get involved in species reintroduction programs. Still, in the shorter term, my goals are primarily to get into grad school, possibly for conservation ecology.

I support the running of the Animal Care department by overseeing the daily care and management of our lab animals. My responsibilities include monitoring animal health, ensuring proper nutrition, scheduling and conducting animal daily routines, and coordinating with researchers to facilitate research protocols with the research technicians.

Lab Editor

Gracie Kaisner

Hi, I'm Gracie! My position in the lab is currently the lab editor. I love writing, and I am so excited to be working with the lab to create new works. I am currently working on a project that will expand the theory of reptiles as service animals. My goals are to grow my knowledge regarding reptiles, build my scientific writing skills, and make some new connections! I can't wait to do amazing things with everyone on the team! 

I am the crucial link between the Marketing, Relations, and Research departments. I am mainly responsible for reviewing and editing all research documents, publications, and promotional materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, and adherence to scientific standards.

Lab Manager

Lily Campagna

My name is Lily Campagna, and I am currently a senior at Eckerd College. I have worked with Eastern Indigo Snakes and participated in field surveys for Gopher Tortoises. I volunteer with Boyd Hill Nature Preserve for Environmental Education, especially with children. I am a herping hobbyist and enjoy finding reptiles in the wild. I have been the proud pet parent of Leopard Geckos, Crested Geckos, and Bearded Dragons (along with my cat). I am very excited to participate in providing science-based guides and resources for pet keepers and exploring new ideas about reptilian cognition and sentience.

I support running the Research department by overseeing laboratory operations. This includes resource allocation, equipment maintenance, and compliance with safety protocols while coordinating research projects. I have to communicate well with the Research Technicians to ensure study protocols and equipment are implemented and created where necessary. 

Media Manager

Lexi Holland

Hello, I'm Lexi! I have design and managerial experience from my job as the design manager for Triton Publications at Eckerd College. I have an eye for detail and can't wait to share all the fantastic work our lab creates. I'm majoring in Animal Studies with minors in journalism and creative writing. I have a huge passion for felids and hope to work closely with them in the future.

I support the running of the Marketing and Relations department. My key role is to develop and implement media strategies to promote the lab’s research and outreach activities. My duties include managing public relations, organizing community outreach programs, and managing fundraising to support financial goals


Fundraising Manager

Claire Barnett

Hello! I'm Claire Barnett, a sophomore majoring in Animal Studies and minoring in marine biology. I have experience with the Eckerd Marketing Team, writing articles and running campaigns for the campus, as well as creating and operating events for State Parks. I hope to continue to interact with and inform people about how to protect wildlife and the wonders of nature. I am excited to be able to help this team and support their research! 

I am part of the Marketing and Relations department. My role is to develop fundraising strategies and identify potential funding sources by writing grant proposals, coordinating fundraising events, and cultivating relationships with donors and sponsors.

Merchandise Manager

 Shay Dooley

Hi! My name is Shay Dooley, and I'm a senior majoring in Animal Studies and Psychology. Much of my animal studies experience thus far revolves around dolphins and canines, but I also have a 6-year-old bearded dragon at home. After graduation, I aim to discover new ways in which animals can aid human lives while still prioritizing the animals' best interests. I am so excited to participate in this project, design and market some fantastic products, and raise money for meaningful research. 

I am part of the Marketing and Relations department. My main role is to develop and manage the lab's merchandise strategy, including designing promotional materials, managing inventory, and coordinating sales initiatives to support lab funding. 


Lead Data Analyst

Lara Eade

My name is Lara, I’m a senior at Eckerd College majoring in Animal Studies and minoring in Biology and Data Science. I plan to pursue graduate school and a career in animal behavior research and welfare science within the zoological field. Presently, I am the Lab Manager of the Frick Animal Behavior Lab and a Behavioral Research Volunteer at ZooTampa. Most of my previous research experience has involved behavioral studies with dolphins and rhinos, but I am excited to branch out and learn more about reptiles. I am especially interested in studying social interactions and exploring ways we can enhance animal well-being through data-driven decision-making. 

I am part of the Research department. I oversee research planning, data/video coding, analysis, and interpretation for research projects. This includes developing statistical models, managing data management systems, and collaborating with researchers to ensure data integrity and validity. Additionally, I oversee the draft and finalization of research papers. 


Lead Researcher

Tessie Sacchetti

Hello! I'm Tessie Sacchetti, a sophomore Marine Biology major at Eckerd. I have experience in herptile, mammal, and avian animal care from working in an exotic species rehoming center. I'm excited to work with the lab team to plan and execute research and care for new species. My future goal is to work in animal care and rehabilitation and publish my work.

I am part of the Research department. I direct research projects from conception to execution. My responsibilities include designing experiments, mentoring assistant researchers, and ensuring compliance with ethical standards in research methodologies. I also ensure the Research Technicians implement and create study protocols and equipment. I also oversee the writing and publication of research papers

Research Technicans

We are the crucial link between the Animal Care and Research departments. We support ongoing research projects by assisting with designing experiments, creating equipment, and ensuring animal care routines are conducted as needed in light of the research methodology. We must ensure safety and compliance with IACUC regulations, as well as communication between the research and animal care teams. When not creating and designing required equipment for research purposes, we support the lab technicians in animal care and enclosure management.

Connor Tooker

Hi I'm Connor! my professional experience includes working as a keeper and hand with various zoos and ranches. I have worked closely with several different species including giraffes, various types of reptiles and amphibians, and most specifically horses. After college I intend to further pursue my career in ranch work, more specifically studying and working towards the betterment of welfare of working animals. I'm most looking forward to having the opportunity to put together naturalistic, planted enclosures for the animals we'll be working with as part of the lab, and can't wait to get to work. 

Dylan Mullen

My name is Dylan Mullen. I'm originally from New Jersey, and I have always loved animals. For as long as I can remember, I've been interested in keeping reptiles and their behavior in the wild. I began by finding a multitude of amphibians around creeks and streams, then kept my first pet, a green anole from a street fair. Since then, I've kept and worked with over 30 species of herpetofauna in captivity and many more out in the field by myself or in a research setting. I'm very excited to begin studying and exploring the cognitive ability of commonly kept reptiles and their social behaviors among members of their species and others, as well as improving their captive husbandry.

Relations Coordinators

We are part of the Media and Relations department. Our role is to manage relationships with stakeholders and the community. To do this, we coordinate outreach programs, engage with partner organizations, manage website upkeep, and promote the lab’s research initiatives through various channels such as Facebook, X, and Twitter. We may also support the design of fundraising activities and outreach to stakeholders, create social media and website content through Canva and Photoshop, and design new images through art. 

Charlotte Latham

Hello! My name is Charlotte Latham, and I am currently a senior majoring in Animal Studies with a minor in Visual Arts. I have worked as a zookeeper for three years and as an Aquarist Intern at the New England Aquarium. I have research experience studying keystone herbivorous reef fish in Panama with SFS and Ringtail Lemur foraging behavior with the Lemur Conservation Foundation. I studied graphic design at Elisava Barcelona School of Design and Engineering and have assisted in social media management.

Callisto Lattimore

Hello, my name is Callisto Lattimore! I have worked as a coordinator for a hydrogen company connecting our company with other potential business partners. I am so excited to work with this lab, I want to work in animal cognition out of college and the idea that I can work within proximity to the research I want to do is incredible! I have lots of experience in social media on all the major platforms and I am excited to be able to communicate and advocate for something as personal to me as research. 

Assistant Researchers

We are part of the Research department. We support the Lead Researcher in conducting experiments and gathering and coding data. To achieve this, we perform literature reviews, prepare materials for experiments, conduct experiments, and document research findings as scientific papers.

Maya Bent

Hi, I’m Maya! Before joining the Eckerd community and working in the Lab, I lived in St. Louis, where I volunteered with elderly dogs at a local stray rescue shelter. I am eager to engage in this upcoming reptile research and connect with other passionate people in the field! In the future, I aspire to work in animal rehabilitation and habitat conservation.

Alyssa Barocas

Hi! My name’s Alyssa, and I am a sophomore majoring in Biology with a minor in Animal Studies. I currently volunteer with Nature World Wildlife, working with injured wildlife and rehabbing baby squirrels, opossums, and birds. I also volunteer with Chase Sanctuary, working with lemurs, monkeys, and other exotics. I’m hoping to continue to work in rehabilitation in the future. I currently have various reptiles, and I am super excited to work with them more in the lab and expand my knowledge! 






Zekiel Thuma

I’m incredibly excited to get the opportunity to work closely with various species of reptiles! Animals in general have been quite a large part of my life for a while, and I have had wonderful experiences in the past working with rescues and learning about animal care. I have learned a lot in regards to their care and behavior simply from having many pets of my own, so I’m very interested in what I can learn from a more professional setting! Hopefully, this will give me valuable knowledge as I aspire to achieve my own career in research centered around reptiles. 

Assistant Data Analysts

We are part of the Research department. We support the Lead Data Analyst by planning, processing, coding, and analyzing data. Therefore, our responsibilities include preparing reports, conducting statistical analyses, and assisting in the development of data management protocols.

Devon Clark

My name is Devon Clark and I will be working as an Assistant Data Analysis. I have grown up around many different animals but reptiles have always been my favorite to take care of and be around. I have several pet reptiles but I also take in reptiles from bad situations in order to rehabilitate and rehome them. In the past I’ve volunteered at the Pacuare reserve in Costa Rica where I helped collect data on leather back sea turtle hatchlings and eggs. I also spent a lot of time volunteering at wildlife sanctuary’s where I cared for animals, taught people how to properly interact with animals, and participated in fundraising events. I’m excited to get experience working in reptile research. I love learning about reptiles cognition, husbandry, care, and the steps I can take to improve the lives of my own reptiles. In the future I would love to have a career that involves animal husbandry, research, or conservation. I’m excited to be apart of the Anglo-American Reptile Research Lab!



Grace Benton

Hello, I'm Grace and I am currently an Assistant Data Analyst! I had the opportunity previously to design and study the Brown Pelican at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium about their habitat usage and social interactions with new pelicans in their flock. I then worked under multiple zoo keeper at the Animal Encounters Village, working with hundreds of different animals from capybaras all the way to Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches. I am planning to double major in Animal Studies and Psychology to focus on animal cognition and their relation to humans, as well as minoring in Public Health. I am incredibly excited to work for this lab because I love being around such different people and working in such a great community to learn about how we can help and research such interesting reptiles.  

Van Hasley

I have experience predominately in volunteer work at multiple state parks along the East Coast of Florida. I was the Student Leader Chairperson for the Board of Directors at one of these state parks, managing volunteers, educating visitors, conducting seagrass surveys, directing beach and mangrove cleanups, and reporting these activities to the Board. Furthermore, I have experience in creating bioactive enclosures for my veiled chameleons, tree frogs, toads, and bearded dragon. I'm especially excited to work with people who share my interests and learn more about this field. Later in life, I want to work with coral zooxanthellae and conduct research in that field or with amphibians, so this research opportunity provides a perfect leeway into this. Ultimately, I want to make a positive change in the world and I'm happy to learn!



Lab Technicians 

We are part of the Animal Care department. We assist in the laboratory's daily operations, focusing on animal care, maintenance of lab equipment, and support for research activities. Our responsibilities include monitoring animal health, completing animal daily routines, and ensuring adherence to care protocols. We are also responsible for collecting information for the lab website that can support owners in scientific understanding of animal care guidelines. 

Kinsey Bauer

Hello, I’m Kinsey Bauer! I am in my sophomore year at Eckerd College, majoring in Animal Studies and minoring in Biology. I previously held an internship at the Alabama Gulf State Park Nature Center. I worked closely with owls, snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators, a hawk, and many other animals local to the area. My responsibilities included caring for and handling the animals, providing them with enrichment activities, taking care of their enclosures, teaching classes about the animals, and helping respond to wildlife calls. I learned a lot about animal behavior and health during my time there. I am so excited to work with people who share my same passion for animals and to experience working in a lab for the first time! In the future I hope to do field work with marine animals and study their behaviors. 

Orion Fentress

Hi, I'm Orion! I'm very passionate about reptile welfare and enrichment and the benefits of bioactive enclosures! I have a background in reptile care, including working at a summer camp for animal education, interning at the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center, and caring for my snake! I hope to bring careful and extensive care to the laboratory animals, and I'm so excited to dip my toes into a real lab and do actual research on geckos and other species! Hopefully, I want to work in the herpetology field, rescue and rehabilitation/relocation, or in a lab with venomous species. 

Sydney Logan

My name is Sydney, and I am from Columbus, Ohio!  I am in the class of 2028. I am majoring in animal studies and minoring in marine biology.  I love animals and have a strong passion for them.  I love scuba diving, traveling, hanging out with my amazing Eckerd people, and boating! I am so excited to learn more about reptile cognition and contribute to improving reptilian life and welfare. 

Adhoc Assistants

We support all the departments wherever the tasks take us! Our roles involve supporting larger tasks when required. We will support ongoing research projects by collecting data, maintaining animal welfare, assisting with communications, organizing events, and updating our social media platforms.

Payton Beaver

Hello! My name is Payton Beaver, and I am an animal studies major. I have previously worked as a kennel assistant, working closely with puppies. I am currently a Skyway Seabird Rescue group member helping to rescue injured seabirds. I joined the lab because I am passionate about educating the public on the unique characteristics of geckos, and I look forward to building connections with fellow researchers in this lab. My career goal is to become a zoological specialist, focusing on rehabilitation and rescue efforts in a zoo or aquarium setting. 

Laila Campbell

Hello! I'm Laila and I am a junior majoring in Animal Studies with a minor in Visual Arts and Humanities. I have years of experience caring for reptiles, including geckos, lizards, tortoises, and snakes. I also have experience with laboratory work as I have helped lead.

our close associates: london zoo, amazing animals, zoo tampa, animal studies research collaborative, advancing herpetological husbandry, british hereptological society, univeristy of lincoln, wpg property management, whitestone captial