Nadine Lamberski

DVM, DACZM, DECZM (ZHM)
Chief Conservation and Wildlife Health Officer

Dr. Nadine Lamberski is a globally recognized leader in wildlife health, species recovery, and conservation strategy. As the Chief Conservation and Wildlife Health Officer for San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, she oversees one of the world’s most comprehensive programs for safeguarding biodiversity—uniting veterinary expertise, scientific discovery, and field-based conservation across multiple continents.

With more than three decades of experience advancing health and resilience of wildlife populations, Dr. Lamberski and her team have shaped innovative, evidence-driven approaches to nature conservation. Her leadership has strengthened global capacity in endangered species management, advanced biobanking and genetic rescue initiatives, and expanded collaborative efforts with partners such as IUCN, government agencies, NGO’s, universities, and local communities.

Dr. Lamberski is known for connecting the care of individual animals to the survival of entire species, demonstrating how outstanding animal care in accredited zoos, aquariums, and botanic gardens accelerates global conservation outcomes. She has authored numerous scientific publications, led pioneering health interventions for critically endangered species, and steered initiatives that bridge veterinary science, ecology, and community-based conservation.

A respected mentor and advisor, Dr. Lamberski champions cross-disciplinary innovation and helps guide conservation organizations as they shift from fragmented approaches to holistic stewardship of nature. Her work reflects a core belief that healthy ecosystems—and the wildlife within them—are fundamental to human well-being, cultural heritage, and economic resilience.