AFFECT-EVO is a multidisciplinary consortium of researchers from natural sciences, social sciences, philosophy, psychology, animal welfare, and technology. The Action promotes collaboration across Europe to deepen scientific understanding of affective states and address societal challenges through research networking and capacity building.
Focus of the action
AFFECT-EVO - “An evolutionary view to understanding affective states across species.”
The main objective of AFFECT-EVO is to design a new phylogenetic framework for investigating emotion-like states (emotions and moods) in different animal species. Understanding how animals experience and express affective states is essential to improve animal welfare.
AFFECT-EVO addresses this challenge by defining common and species-specific affective features within an evolutionary context. The Action also examines how public opinion and policy engagement with animal emotions shape sociopolitical and legal frameworks.
This work supports the development of reliable welfare assessment tools and responsive treatments for affective disorders, guiding cross-species research efforts.
Key focus areas:
- Cross-species comparison of emotional and mood states
- Standardizing methods to assess affective states in animals
- Bridging gaps between scientific research, public understanding, and policymaking
- Supporting young researchers through training, collaboration, and mobility grants
Get Involved
How to Join
It is possible to apply to become part of the COST Action if your interest and expertise lies in affective states or related areas.
- Read the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to determine if your expertise aligns with the project;
- Make a profile on e-COST;
- When registered at e-COST, apply for 1, maximum 2, Working Groups to which you can contribute most with your expertise;
- You will receive a decision on your application within 3 months. In case insufficient details are provided in the application form, the application can be sent back to you with the request for further information;
- Each participating country allows two participants to be part of the Management Committee (MC).
In case there is the opportunity to become MC member, contact the Action Chair. Management Committee nominations are carried out through the COST National Contact Points.