Animal Scientist Job Description
An animal scientist is responsible for conducting research involving the nutrition, growth, reproduction, genetics and development of various domestic farm animals. Using the results of his/her research, the animal scientist will then formulate more efficient ways of producing and processing poultry, eggs, milk and meat. He/she should also provide consultations with agricultural producers to reduce mortality rates, improve disease and parasite control, increase the production of animal products, dispose waste matter properly and provide a safe and healthy housing for the animals.
Education/Experience Requirements for the job of an animal scientist: A successful candidate must possess a degree in agricultural science. He/she may need additional studies in animal sciences, which includes courses on nutrition, meats and muscle biology, animal breeding and reproductive physiology. Some jobs may require the candidate to have completed Graduate-level programs in crop science, horticulture science, genetics or animal breeding.
Skills of an animal scientist include but are not limited to: ability to solve problems and multi-task, advanced knowledge in mathematics, chemistry, biology and food production, excellent oral and written communication skills; strong research and analytical skills; and a genuine love for animals and the sciences.
Specific work elements of the job as an animal scientist include: analyzing and recommending nutritional requirement of animals; studying effects of processing methods and other management practices; determining genetic composition of animal populations and trait heritability; crossbreeding animals with existing or cross strains to develop new combinations of desirable characteristics.
