Dr. Francine Patterson is a renowned psychologist and animal behaviorist best known for her groundbreaking work with Koko, a gorilla who was taught to communicate using American Sign Language. Her research focused on the cognitive abilities of non-human primates and their capacity for language and emotional expression. Patterson's work has significantly contributed to the understanding of animal intelligence and the complexities of interspecies communication. She has published numerous articles and books on her findings, advocating for the ethical treatment of animals and the importance of recognizing their emotional lives.