Animal Activity License: 9751
Telephone: 02380 394174
Jake Weeks, PhD, MRes, FISAP (Herp Edu), FLS, MRSB, MICAN
Volunteer Managing Director & Principal Instructor
Specialist Herpetology Subject
Reptiles, Amphibians & Disease (Microbiology)
Favourite Herptile
Monte, the amelanistic Burmese python
Python bivittatus
How can herptiles change people's lives?
Reptiles and amphibian encounters have an amazing positive impact on SEND/SEMH children and adults
Dislikes
Education and policy misfeasance. Also non-italicised Latin names.
Likes
Feasance. Italicised Latin names. Biology. History. History of Biology. I suppose the Biology of History!
Star Wars. Dr. Who. Animals. A white cuppa tea.
Important Figure
HRH Duke of Edinburgh (Prince Philip) had a lifelong commitment to wildlife conservation which was best characterised by his relationship with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The DofE programme also allowed me to get involved with the New Forest, which naturally led me down the path of biological sciences and working with reptiles.
A Bit About Me
I’m Dr. Jake Weeks, a biologist, educator, and founder of The Reptile Academy.
My work sits at the intersection of animal welfare, education, and conservation, with a particular focus on reptiles and amphibians. Formally, my professional training is in respiratory microbiology - the bacteria that live in your lungs! However, I enjoy all aspects of Living Science, from ecosystems to fungi and even plants!
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My passion for wildlife and education has shaped much of my career. I’ve spent years developing educational programmes that give people meaningful, hands-on experience with animals while maintaining the highest standards of welfare.
Through The Reptile Academy, I work with a wide range of learner, from school students and SEND learners to university veterinary and zoology students, helping them develop practical skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the natural world.
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I’m also deeply interested in research and the role that captive environments can play in improving animal welfare and public understanding of herpetology. Alongside running The Reptile Academy, I’m developing educational courses, research initiatives, and qualifications designed to raise the standard of reptile and amphibian education.
At the heart of everything I do is a simple belief: that education, when done properly, has the power to inspire people, improve animal welfare, and create lasting positive change.
Background
Academic Background
September 2015 - June 2018
BSc. Biology at University of Southampton
September 2018 - Sept 2019
MRes. Advanced Biological Sciences (Microbiology) at National Biofilms Innovation Centre and Unilever
October 2019 - July 2024
PhD Infection, Inflammation & Immunity (Microbiology) at University Hospital Southampton and AstraZeneca, Cambridge.
July 2024 - Present
Independent Research Consultant / Author and Bioscience Education Consultant
April 2016 - 2020
Forestry England Volunteer Ranger
June 2018 - Present
Managing Director at The Reptile Academy Ltd
I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Southampton, where I developed a strong foundation in the biological sciences. My studies covered a broad range of topics including ecology, microbiology, genetics, physiology, and evolution. During this time I developed a particular interest in microbiology, infectious disease, and the interactions between organisms and their environments. My dissertation was looking at a gene associated with autism in worms!
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I undertook a Master of Research in Advanced Biological Sciences with a specialisation in Microbiology. My research was conducted through the National Biofilms Innovation Centre in collaboration with Unilever, focusing on microbial biofilms and their biological and industrial significance with mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine. This programme allowed me to develop advanced research skills in microbiology, experimental design, and scientific analysis while working alongside academic researchers and industry scientists.
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My results showed that proper dental hygiene is very very for your overall health, BUT, overuse of mouthwashes containing antimicrobials led to an overgrowth of Campylobacter rectus - a bacteria that usually lives in the bottom!
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I completed a PhD investigating microbiology within the field of
infection, inflammation, and immunity in the COPD lung. COPD is a lung disease that is usually caused by cigarette smoking. There are certain bacteria with then cause disease in a lung that has symptoms of COPD.
My doctoral research was conducted between University Hospital Southampton and AstraZeneca’s research facilities in Cambridge, combining academic research with pharmaceutical industry collaboration.
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My work explored microbial systems relevant to human health and disease, with a focus on understanding complex biological interactions that influence infection and host responses. During my doctorate I developed extensive experience in laboratory research, experimental microbiology, and scientific communication and have published some of my research.
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An example of my work is published in Frontiers | The Role of Non-Typeable Haemophilus influenzae Biofilms in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
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Since finishing my PhD, I have put my knowledge and experience across biology to use as a Consultant. I offer advice, training and a scientific perspective, as well as authoring scientific works. I am currently acting as an industrial supervisor to undergraduate students completing their research projects.
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During my university days, I spent much time volunteering with Forestry England as the old New Forest Reptile Centre. My role included public engagement and conservation.
Alongside all of the above, somehow...I have managed to build and run a successful animal education and welfare organisation, The Reptile Academy. We have grown to be the come of some 100+ animal residents and offer a variety of courses, qualifications and other opportunities.
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I currently spend much of my time advocating for SEND/SEMH education, where animals have such a positive impact.
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