Samantha Russak

Samantha Russak, PhD, currently serves as Chief of Research and Welfare at Tanganyika Wildlife Park, overseeing research and welfare programs and managing a team of Animal Experience Specialists. Previous roles include Assistant Chief of Care at Tutor Doctor and Director of Education at both Earth Ltd. and Southwick's Zoo, where responsibilities involved coordinating educational activities and programs. Samantha's extensive experience as a zookeeper spans various animal taxa, with a focus on animal care, enrichment, and behavior monitoring. Educational qualifications include a PhD in Anthropology from Arizona State University, supported by a master's degree in Physical and Biological Anthropology and dual bachelor's degrees in Zoology and Anthropology from Miami University.