Meet the Research Team
The Haggis Guardian Institute of Study brings together researchers, field specialists, and educators dedicated to understanding and protecting haggis through science, welfare, and traditional knowledge.
Andy Mackinnon
Dean
Andy MacKinnon is the Dean of the Haggis Guardian Institute of Study and founder of the institute. His journey into haggis research began in the rugged Highlands of Scotland, where his early fascination with tracking the elusive animal led him deep into remote landscapes. A chance encounter with a small population near Nairn proved to be a turning point — transforming curiosity and ambition into respect, understanding, and a lifelong commitment to their protection.
That experience sparked a shift from pursuit to preservation. Determined to learn more and ensure the species’ future, Andy went on to establish H.G.I.S. in 2015, creating a centre dedicated to research, welfare, education, and conservation.
As Dean, he combines field knowledge, leadership, and a deep personal connection to Scotland’s wild places. His story underpins the institute’s ethos: that understanding leads to respect, and respect leads to protection.
Elizabeth Mackinnon
Haggis Welfare Development Officer
Elizabeth “Liz” MacKinnon serves as Haggis Welfare Development Officer at the Haggis Guardian Institute of Study, where she focuses on the wellbeing, enrichment, and cultural understanding of haggis under the institute’s care. A graduate with a BA (Hons) in Arts & Humanities (Classical Studies), Liz brings a unique blend of historical insight, storytelling tradition, and compassionate observation to her work.
Her particular expertise lies in the oral traditions surrounding the Haggis Wailer — an ancient chanting crone of Highland folklore said to be a guardian and companion of the haggis. Liz’s knowledge of these myths helps preserve the cultural heritage connected to the species, adding depth and meaning to modern welfare practices.
With a thoughtful and attentive nature, she plays an important role in ensuring the haggis are understood not only as animals, but as creatures woven into Scotland’s stories and landscape. Outside of HGIS, Liz enjoys Kelpie keeping, a hobby that reflects her patience, care, and fascination with aquatic life.
Allan Hunter
Senior Lecturer & Researcher
Allan Hunter is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher at the Haggis Guardian Institute of Study, where he plays a key role in the care, study, and management of haggis within the institute’s captive breeding programme. With a degree in Agriculture and the Environment from Wye College, University of London, Allan brings a strong grounding in land stewardship, ecology, and species management to his work. His expertise bridges practical husbandry and environmental science, ensuring that conservation efforts are both scientifically informed and rooted in real-world field knowledge.
Alongside his academic and research responsibilities, Allan is a qualified instructor in bushcraft, archery, and axe throwing — skills that reflect his deep connection to the outdoors and traditional land-based practices. His practical experience in wild environments informs both his teaching and his approach to conservation, giving students and colleagues alike a uniquely hands-on perspective.
Outside of HGIS, Allan can often be found exploring the wild landscapes of Scotland or volunteering at the Inverness Botanic Gardens, where he runs the Kids Club he founded to inspire young people to engage with nature, wildlife, and environmental learning.
Evangeline Hunter
Associate Lecturer
Evie Hunter is an Associate Lecturer with the Haggis Guardian Institute of Study and is currently studying for her degree in Marine Science. Her academic focus centres on conservation, with particular attention on the unique Island Haggis subspecies — an area in which she is rapidly building specialist knowledge and recognition.
Evie combines strong scientific curiosity with a practical, field-based approach, contributing to research, teaching support, and species monitoring. Her work reflects a commitment to protecting vulnerable wildlife and understanding the ecosystems they depend on.
Outside her academic role, Evie has a passion for travel and spends her time exploring different parts of the world to learn about indigenous wildlife and conservation practices, bringing a global perspective to her work.
Rylan MacAskill
Research Assistant
Rylan MacAskill is one of the newest members of the research team at the Haggis Guardian Institute of Study, bringing enthusiasm, curiosity, and a fresh perspective to the role. At just 18, Rylan is already showing a strong interest in scientific research and conservation, with a natural eagerness to learn and get involved in hands-on work.
As a Research Assistant, he supports ongoing projects by helping with data collection, field tasks, and general research support. He is known for his reliability, positive attitude, and willingness to take on new challenges — qualities that make him a valued part of the team.
Rylan is at the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey into research, and he is proud to contribute to work that helps protect and better understand Scotland’s most remarkable wildlife.
Marlin Fraser
Field Folklore & Behavioural Research Specialist
Marlin Fraser works at the Haggis Guardian Institute of Study as Field Folklore & Behavioural Research Specialist, combining observational fieldwork with the study of traditional Highland lore surrounding the haggis. His role bridges science and story, documenting behavioural patterns in wild and semi-wild haggis populations while preserving the cultural narratives that have long shaped human understanding of the species.
Often found in remote glens with a notebook in hand, Marlin specialises in quiet observation, habitat recording, and what he describes as “listening to the landscape.” His research focuses on the subtle social behaviours of haggis, including bonding, territorial etiquette, and intergenerational learning among haglets.
Known for his calm presence in the field and uncanny ability to gain the trust of even the shyest haggis, Marlin believes that good research begins with patience, respect, and a strong cup of tea. When not working, he can usually be found repairing well-used kit, adding to his field journals, or sharing stories from the hills with anyone willing to listen.