James Brennan
Director, Animal Care Services
James is an accomplished laboratory animal science professional, with over 18 years of experience across multiple roles in the field. He currently serves as the Director of Animal Care Services at the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he leads a passionate team dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of animal care and welfare. James holds a Master’s degree in Laboratory Animal Science (MLAS) from Drexel University and is a Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) through the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS).
Education
- M.S., Laboratory Animal Science, Drexel University, 2016
- B.S., Psychology, Eastern Connecticut State University, 2008
- A.A.S., Animal Science, Becker College, 2006
Teaching
- ANSC 3272. Laboratory Animal Science
Research Areas / Expertise
- Laboratory Animal Science
- Animal Welfare
- Lab Animal
Selected Publications
- Brennan, J. How Much Wood Can a Woodchuck Chuck if a Woodchuck Could Chuck Wood? Not Much if They’re Provided with the Right Enrichment! Lab Animal Science Professional. January 2024. Journal Article.
Outreach and Service
A dedicated advocate for the humane treatment of laboratory animals, James has maintained an active role on the Southern New England AALAS (SNEAALAS) Board of Directors for the past five years, serving in key leadership roles including President, President-Elect, Education Chair, and Awards Chair. He is also a passionate community advocate, leading numerous outreach initiatives such as Biomedical Research Awareness Day (BRAD) celebrations, high school facility tours, visits to local elementary schools, and science career fairs.
Professional Profiles

| james.brennan@uconn.edu | |
| Office Location | PBB B-08 |