Penny Patterson is a well-known animal psychologist and researcher, particularly recognized for her work with Koko, a gorilla she taught to use sign language. Patterson began her research in the 1970s, aiming to explore the cognitive abilities of non-human primates and their capacity for communication. Throughout her career, Patterson has focused on the emotional and social development of great apes. Her work has sparked discussions about animal intelligence and the ethical treatment of animals in captivity, contributing to the broader field of animal rights and conservation efforts.