Jonathan Balcombe was born in England, raised in New Zealand and Canada, and has lived in the United States since 1987. He has written many scientific papers and lay- articles on animal behavior, humane education, and animal research (see Editorial). A popular speaker, he has given invited presentations in the USA, UK, Canada, Japan, Brazil, Israel, Australia, New Zealand, and mainland Europe.

In 2000, the Humane Society Press released his book The Use of Animals in Higher Education: Problems, Alternatives and Recommendations. His second book, Pleasurable Kingdom: Animals and the Nature of Feeling Good (Macmillan), was released in May 2006.

Jonathan has blogged for First Science and has been invited to blog for New Scientist once its blog is set up. Jonathan also wrote an online column titled, Beyond Animal Research for the PCRM website between 2005 and 2006.

Jonathan is currently Senior Research Scientist with Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, in Washington, D.C. In his spare time he enjoys nature-watching, biking, piano, vegan cooking and trying to understand his two cats.

Click on picture of dolphins to view it larger.