Matt James

Matt James is the Chief Animal Officer at Colossal Biosciences and a leader in exotic animal care with more than thirteen years of experience in husbandry and welfare. Previously working as the Senior Director of Animal Care for large zoological institutions such as the Dallas Zoo and Zoo Miami, he had the opportunity to manage over 7,000 animals representing more than 500 species, while also maintaining their accreditation standards with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Firmly believing in a hands-on approach, James has managed, cared for, bred, and translocated a large variety of animals including elephants, rhinos, and other mega-vertebrates. Understanding the necessity for collaboration and perpetuating his passion for conservation, he holds several positions within the AZA organization such as serving on the Taxon Advisory Groups for Elephants, Rhinos, and Antelope & Giraffid, and manages the Species Survival Plans for Red River Hogs, Yellow-backed Duikers, and Giraffe.

In addition to acting as an accreditation inspector, he was recently appointed as the Husbandry & Welfare Working Group Chair on the AZA’s Elephant Sustainability Task Force.

James has a Bachelor of Science degree from Doane University where he majored in biology and chemistry as well as an MBA from the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida.

James is also the Executive Director of the Colossal Foundation which launched in October 2024. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting the use of cutting-edge technologies to conservation efforts globally to help prevent extinction of keystone species.