Emma Clear-Jones

She/Her

I am a lesbian and I am a functional morphologist.//

I have long held a deep appreciation for animal and plant life, I grew up watching nature docs but never really believed it could be anything more. I originally began an undergraduate degree in English and Film Studies, but a visit to the zoo inspired me to pursue what I was truly inspired by. Within a week, I had switched to studying Wildlife Conservation and Zoo Biology at the University of Salford, and I have never looked back.

Since then, I have completed placements at wildlife rehabilitation centres, animal rescue organisations and zoos, and have had the opportunity to observe wildlife all over the world. In 2018, I began a PhD at Manchester Metropolitan University investigating the comparative anatomy and functional morphology of mustelid genitalia, species such as otters, ferrets and badgers. My research explores how genital structures function during reproduction and how they have evolved across species. Throughout my PhD, I have presented my work at international conferences and published several chapters of my research.

As a lesbian scientist studying reproductive anatomy, I am particularly aware of how cultural assumptions can shape the questions we ask in science. Female anatomy has historically been (and continues to be) overlooked, leaving significant gaps in our understanding of reproductive biology. Through my research, I aim to showcase the remarkable diversity, complexity and evolutionary innovation found in female reproductive anatomy, while advocating for greater recognition of these understudied structures in science.

Being openly queer in academia is important not only because it allows me to live freely, but also because I hope it helps others see that there is space for them in science. Diverse perspectives strengthen research, and representation can make a real difference for students and early-career scientists who are considering their own paths.

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/emmaclear Bluesky @emmaclear.bsky.social