Abstract:

The ManyManys is an unprecedented mega-network of multi-disciplinary and international researchers that aims to overcome challenges in comparative cognition by collaboratively developing and applying innovative methods to measure and compare behaviour across animal taxa. It was created to tackle the growing concerns across disciplines about the detrimental effects of conducting studies in siloed laboratories, with small sample sizes, and underpowered designs, on the reproducibility, replicability, and robustness of research findings. In comparative cognition, the ramifications of these effects are particularly pronounced because, in addition to the above-mentioned problems, this field relies heavily on generalizing research findings across taxa, which usually is based on limited species coverage. The ManyManys network provides the framework and the collaborative platform for conducting large-scale high-impact research projects. Its overarching objective is to increase sample size and diversity, enhance task design and striking a balance between cross-species standardization and species-fair design, further theoretical advances, and improve welfare and conservation efforts, as well as foster best research practices advancing the standards of the big team science (Alessandroni et al., 2024).

Speaker's social media:

@TheManyManys