Opportunities In The World Of Animal Science

Manavi Agarwal

Last Updated: September 20, 2023
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If you’ve ever dreamed of a career that lets you hang out with creatures great and small, then you’re in for a wild ride! Animal Science isn’t just about petting puppies and cuddling kittens (although that’s a bonus); it’s a fascinating realm where you can dive into the nitty-gritty of our furry, feathered, and scaly friends. From the science behind their wagging tails to the secrets of their meows and roars, this field offers a treasure trove of job roles waiting for you to explore. So, dust off your safari hat, because we’re about to embark on a safari of careers in Animal Science!

Job Roles In Animal Science

Veterinarian: The Ultimate Animal Hero

vet and dog

If you’re looking for a job where you can be the ultimate animal hero, becoming a veterinarian might be your calling. Veterinarians are like doctors for animals, and they play a crucial role in keeping our pets and livestock healthy. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Responsibilities: Diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries in animals, performing surgeries, and providing preventive care like vaccinations.
  • Settings: Veterinarians can work in private clinics, zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, or even research institutions.
  • Specialisations: You can specialise in areas like small animals, large animals, exotic pets, or even wildlife.
  • Salary: ₹4-8 lakhs per annum for entry-level veterinarians, with experienced veterinarians earning up to ₹20 lakhs per annum or more.

The demand for veterinarians is expected to grow due to an ageing pet population and increasing awareness of the importance of preventive veterinary care. A bachelor’s degree in veterinary science is required to become a veterinarian. Most veterinarians also complete a three-year doctoral program in veterinary medicine (DVM).

Animal Behaviourist: Understanding The Minds Of Our Furry Friends

Ever wondered what’s going on inside the minds of animals? Animal behaviourists are the detectives who try to understand and interpret animal behaviour. This role involves:

  • Responsibilities: Observing and studying animal behaviour, conducting research, and helping to solve behaviour problems in pets.
  • Settings: Zoos, animal shelters, research institutions, and even as private consultants for pet owners.
  • Impact: By understanding animal behaviour, you can contribute to improving their well-being and strengthening the human-animal bond.
  • Salary: ₹3-6 lakhs per annum for entry-level animal behaviourists, with experienced animal behaviourists earning up to ₹10 lakhs.

The demand for animal behaviourists is expected to grow. This growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of pet ownership and the growing awareness of the importance of animal behaviour. A bachelor’s degree in animal science, psychology, or a related field is required to become an animal behaviourist. 

Wildlife Biologist: Protecting And Preserving Biodiversity

If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation and biodiversity, a career as a wildlife biologist could be your calling. This job involves:

  • Responsibilities: Studying and monitoring wildlife populations, habitats, and ecosystems, and working to protect endangered species.
  • Settings: National parks, wildlife reserves, government agencies, and environmental organisations.
  • Adventure: Get ready for exciting fieldwork in remote locations, tracking animals, and collecting vital data for conservation efforts.
  • Salary: ₹3-6 lakhs per annum for entry-level wildlife biologists, with experienced wildlife biologists earning up to ₹10 lakhs per annum or more.

The demand for wildlife biologists is expected to grow by 5% in the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is attributed to the increasing need to manage and protect wildlife populations and their habitats. A bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology, zoology, or a related field is required to become a wildlife biologist.

Animal Nutritionist: Balancing The Diet For Health And Performance

a cat and a dog sleeping

Animal nutritionists ensure that animals receive the right nutrition to stay healthy and perform at their best. Your responsibilities would include:

  • Responsibilities: Formulating diets, conducting research on animal nutrition, and advising on feeding practices for pets, livestock, and even zoo animals.
  • Settings: You can work for feed companies, research institutions, or consult with farmers and pet owners.
  • Impact: Proper nutrition is essential for animal health and productivity, and you’ll play a key role in achieving this.
  • Salary: ₹3-6 lakhs per annum for entry-level animal nutritionists, with experienced animal nutritionists earning up to ₹10 lakhs per annum or more.

The demand for animal nutritionists is expected to grow due to increasing demand for high-quality animal products and the growing awareness of the importance of animal nutrition.

Animal Geneticist: Unlocking The Secrets Of DNA

Dogs

Ever wondered how genetics affect the traits and health of animals? Animal geneticists are the scientists who explore these genetic mysteries. Your job would involve:

  • Responsibilities: Conducting genetic research, breeding programs, and studying inherited diseases in animals.
  • Settings: Universities, research labs, or as consultants for animal breeding programs.
  • Advancements: With genetic research, you can contribute to breeding healthier and more robust animals, whether they are pets or farm animals.
  • Salary: ₹3-6 lakhs per annum for entry-level animal geneticists, with experienced animal geneticists earning up to ₹10 lakhs per annum or more.

The global animal genetics market size is projected to grow from $7.27 billion in 2022 to $11.82 billion by 2029. This growth is attributed to the increasing need to develop new and improved breeds of animals for food production, research, and other purposes. Animal geneticists are also playing an important role in efforts to conserve endangered species and protect animal health.

Animal Welfare Advocate: Giving A Voice To The Voiceless

For those who are passionate about animal rights and welfare, becoming an advocate is a powerful way to make a difference. Your role involves:

  • Responsibilities: Campaigning for animal rights, raising awareness about animal cruelty, and working with organisations to improve animal welfare laws.
  • Settings: Non-profit organisations, animal shelters, or even starting your own advocacy group.
  • Impact: You’ll be the voice for those who can’t speak for themselves and contribute to creating a more compassionate world for animals.
  • Salary: ₹2-5 lakhs per annum for entry-level animal welfare advocates, with experienced animal welfare advocates earning up to ₹10 lakhs per annum or more.

The demand for animal welfare advocates is expected to grow due to the increasing awareness of animal welfare issues and the growing demand for products and services that promote animal welfare. A bachelor’s degree in animal science, animal welfare, or a related field is required to become an animal welfare advocate. Some animal welfare advocates also have a master’s degree or doctorate in animal welfare or a related field.

Animal Rehabilitation Therapist: Healing And Comforting

Just like humans, animals can also benefit from rehabilitation therapy after injuries or surgeries. As an animal rehabilitation therapist, you’ll:

  • Responsibilities: Design and implement rehabilitation programs for animals, including physical therapy and hydrotherapy.
  • Settings: Veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, or rehabilitation centres.
  • Reward: You’ll witness the incredible progress animals can make on their road to recovery and play a vital role in improving their quality of life.

The salary in India is ₹2-5 lakhs per annum for entry-level animal rehabilitation therapists, with experienced animal rehabilitation therapists earning up to ₹10 lakhs per annum or more. he global companion animal rehabilitation services market size is expected to reach USD 1.18 billion by 2030 to expand at a CAGR of 11.42%. Thus, the demand for animal rehabilitation therapists is expected to grow. 

Animal Science Educator: Inspiring The Next Generation

If you have a passion for teaching and want to inspire the next generation of animal enthusiasts and scientists, consider a career as an animal science educator. Your role includes:

  • Responsibilities: Teaching courses on animal science, conducting research, and mentoring students.
  • Settings: Universities, colleges, and educational institutions.
  • Influence: You’ll have a direct impact on shaping the future of animal science by educating and inspiring future professionals.
  • Salary: ₹2-5 lakhs per annum for entry-level animal science educators, with experienced animal science educators earning up to ₹10 lakhs per annum or more.

The demand for animal science educators is expected. This growth is attributed to the increasing need for qualified educators to teach animal science courses at colleges and universities. A master’s degree or doctorate in animal science or a related field is required to become an animal science educator. Some animal science educators also have experience working in the animal science industry.

How Mentoria Can Help

In the dynamic field of Animal Science, opportunities abound, and career paths are as diverse as the species themselves. From animal nutritionists ensuring healthy diets to veterinarians caring for our furry friends, and researchers uncovering groundbreaking insights, the world of animal science is filled with passion and purpose.

At Mentoria, we understand the significance of choosing the right career path, especially in a field as specialised as Animal Science. Our dedicated team of career counsellors can provide you with personalised guidance, helping you navigate the complex terrain of this industry. Whether you’re considering a career as a zoologist, a wildlife biologist, or any other role within animal science, Mentoria is here to support you.

With our expert advice, you can make informed decisions, set achievable goals, and embark on a fulfilling journey in the world of Animal Science. So, whether you’re just starting or looking to make a transition within this field, let Mentoria be your compass, guiding you toward a successful and rewarding career with our industry-specific insights and support.