Dr. Rachel Turner holds a baby sea turtle.

Today, we’re celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science by sharing the experiences and insights from some of the amazing women in science at our Zoo. Read on to learn more about how these women and girls are using their degrees to make a positive impact on the environment and animals around them. To read all of our features, visit this page.

Let’s meet Dr. Rachel Turner, a staff veterinarian at our Zoo’s L3Harris Animal Care Center.

What is your official title, and how long have you been at the Zoo?

My official title is staff veterinarian, and I’ve been here for 11 months. 

What’s your educational background?

I have a Bachelor of Science in animal science, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and I am a diplomat of the American College of Zoo Medicine.

Dr. Rachel Turner performs an ultrasound on one of our meerkats.

Why did you pursue your field?

I always knew that I wanted to be a vet, and I’ve always loved unique animal species. I’ve also always been passionate about conservation and making a difference for animals that are being impacted by humans. Once I found out I could combine those two things and be a zoo vet, I was set. 

What are some challenges about your work?

There’s so much that we’re still learning about how to medically manage different species. We also often have to rely on the cooperation of our patients, which we don’t always get. There’s also a lot of organization and planning that goes into many of our procedures. And there’s always a lot of paperwork. 

Who motivated you in pursuing your field?

I was always very inspired by Jane Goodall and her work in the field. I’ve had a lot of incredible mentors including Dr. Budhan Pukazhenthi at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Dr. Mat Gerard at the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, Drs. Jess Emerson and Scott Citino at White Oak Conservation, and Dr. Jan Ramer at The Wilds. I’ve also had some amazing peers that have supported me, including Dr. Tatiana Weisbrod and Dr. Emily Brenner.

What advice would you offer young girls pursuing a career in science?

Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and your ideas. Surround yourself with other brilliant women. And always make an effort to support and lift up the women around you. It’s a hard enough field as it is; Competing and bringing each other down just makes it harder. 

Dr. Rachel Turner performs a checkup on a baby coati.

What’s the most fulfilling part of your job?

Healthy babies, and when sick animals start eating or acting normal again. Those are the best. 

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.