Rebecca Sturniolo is the Curator for Amazonia and American Trail at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. With nearly two decades of experience in animal care and zoo leadership, she oversees the welfare, training, and management of a diverse range of species, including North American wildlife, freshwater fishes, reptiles, amphibians, and tropical birds.

Rebecca began her career at the Zoo in 2006 as an animal keeper in the commissary and as a keeper aide at Beaver Valley. Over the years, she advanced from keeper to assistant curator and now leads a team of twelve keepers and two assistant curators. She is passionate about mentoring animal care staff, enhancing animal well-being, and fostering meaningful connections between animals and the public through exhibits, education, and research.

In addition to her responsibilities at the Zoo, Rebecca serves as the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan Coordinator and Studbook Keeper for American beavers.