Doctor Galen was a chimpanzee who worked as a veterinarian in the Academy's animal Research Complex in Ape City during the latter half of the 40th century. Forever frustrated with his position, he pleaded with his colleague, animal psychologist Doctor Zira, about advancement in the field. Citing the recent abolition of the quota system, Galen believed that he should be held in as high regard as Zira. Zira however, downplayed her own importance, noting that Minister of Science, Doctor Zaius, routinely "looked down his nose at chimpanzees".