Mystic Aquarium

Assistant Director of Research and Animal Care

Dr. Lisa Mazzaro received her PhD in nutrition in 1995 from the University of Connecticut in conjunction with Mystic Aquarium. Lisa brings a unique skill set to the Research Department, in that she has a full understanding of animal husbandry issues and animal behavior having worked in the Husbandry Department at the Aquarium for 9 years prior. She also was in charge of the Seal Rehabilitation Clinic for two years. Lisa is currently a Research Scientist in the Department of Research and Veterinary Services and maintains an Assistant Professor in Residence Appointment in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Connecticut. She serves as the nutrition adviser for the Marine Mammal Taxon Advisory Group. Some of her research accomplishments include nutritional studies on Steller sea lions, the study of iron storage disease in fur seals, vitamin A and E metabolism in pinnipeds, and the lack of a need to supplement salt in the diet of penguins housed in fresh water.