Animal Scientists
What is an Animal Scientist?
Animal Scientists are professionals who study various aspects of animal biology, including breeding, genetics, nutrition, behavior, and health. They apply their knowledge to improve the quality, productivity, and welfare of domestic animals such as livestock, pets, and exotic animals. Their work is essential in advancing animal husbandry practices, enhancing food production systems, and ensuring the health and sustainability of animal populations. Animal Scientists often conduct research to develop new methods for raising animals, analyze animal behaviors, and assess the environmental impacts of animal production. They may work in laboratories, farms, research institutions, or in the field, collaborating with veterinarians, agricultural specialists, and environmental scientists to create best practices for animal care and management. This career requires a deep understanding of biological sciences and the ability to apply that knowledge to address real-world challenges related to animal agriculture and wildlife conservation.
Tasks
- Study nutritional requirements of animals and nutritive values of animal feed materials.
- Write up or orally communicate research findings to the scientific community, producers, and the public.
- Develop improved practices in feeding, housing, sanitation, or parasite and disease control of animals.
- Advise producers about improved products and techniques that could enhance their animal production efforts.
- Conduct research concerning animal nutrition, breeding, or management to improve products or processes.
Technology Skills
- Analytical or scientific software
- Presentation software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Spreadsheet software
- Geographic information system
Tools Used
- Animal husbandry equipment
- Stunner
- Densitometers
- Incubators or brooders for poultry
- Laboratory flasks
Knowledge
-
Biology
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
-
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
-
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
-
Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
-
Food Production
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Skills
-
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
-
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
-
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
-
Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
-
Science
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Abilities
-
Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
-
Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
-
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
-
Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
-
Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
-
Doctoral degree
-
Master's degree
-
Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
-
Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
-
Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
-
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
-
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
-
Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Research livestock management methods.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Develop agricultural methods.
- Advise others on business or operational matters.
- Advise others on ways to improve processes or products.
Work Interests
-
Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
-
Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$46240.0 - $162000.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.