Saving Species: The Role of Zoo Science in Wildlife Conservation

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The world is experiencing a biodiversity crisis that threatens ecosystem stability and, ultimately, human health and wellbeing.  Zoos are uniquely positioned to help reverse the trend through applied science, public education, and conservation breeding programs.  At the Toronto Zoo, our work focuses on advancing innovative approaches in species reproduction to bolster recovery efforts for Canadian species at risk.  By integrating assisted reproductive technologies and cryobanking, we are building the tools needed to support sustainable populations and secure long‑term conservation outcomes.

BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Gabriela Mastromonaco integrates cutting-edge research, higher education, and applied wildlife conservation to translate science into impact. With more than 25 years of experience in reproductive biotechnologies across livestock and wildlife species, her career is driven by a commitment to comparative reproductive biology and species recovery. She earned her PhD from the University of Guelph in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, where she developed a strong foundation in translating reproductive science into practical conservation solutions. Gabriela joined the Toronto Zoo over two decades ago and spent more than 15 years as Manager of Reproductive Sciences, leading innovative research programs that addressed fundamental questions in the reproductive biology of non-domestic species and directly informed conservation management. Now serving as Chief Science Officer at the Toronto Zoo, Gabriela provides strategic scientific leadership across the organization. She has built multidisciplinary and international collaborations that advance species recovery strategies both ex situ and in situ, integrating science, animal well-being, and field conservation. A dedicated educator and mentor, Gabriela holds adjunct appointments at four Canadian universities and leads an active research program, training the next generation of scientists and conservation leaders while shaping the future of conservation science globally.