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Career Profile

Animal scientist

Animal scientists study the biology, nutrition, breeding, health and welfare of animals, to improve productivity and sustainability practices in agriculture.
Engineering, Aviation and Science
Average weekly salary
$1934
Future demand
Moderate
Most common education level
Bachelor degree

What does an animal scientist do?

An animal scientist studies how animals grow, reproduce, feed and stay healthy, mostly in agricultural production systems. They apply biology, nutrition and genetics to improve the productivity, welfare and sustainability of livestock and other animals. The work often involves running trials, collecting and analysing data, and developing better breeding, feeding and management practices. Some animal scientists focus on research, while others work directly with producers and industry. 

Animal scientists work across agribusinesses, research institutes, universities and government departments of agriculture or primary industries. The role usually combines laboratory and field or farm-based work with data analysis and reporting. Many roles are tied to Australia's livestock and agricultural industries. 

Is a career as an animal scientist right for me?

A career in animal science may suit you if you are interested in biology and animals and enjoy practical, science-based work. You need to be comfortable with data, careful in your methods, and happy to work across labs, farms and offices. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, practical experience working with animals, and an understanding of animal welfare and sustainability are valuable in this field

Other skills and attributes that suit this career include: 

Analytical thinking
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Communication
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Industry knowledge
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
Workplace readiness
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.

Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.

Digital and technical capability
Proficiency in using technology, digital tools, and relevant software.

How to become animal scientist

Most animal scientists start with a bachelor degree in science or agriculture with a focus on animal science. Practical experience matters, so time on farms, in laboratories or through research projects helps you apply what you learn. Many research roles also expect postgraduate study. 

Every journey is individual, and there are several paths into animal science. Here is just one path you could take to get started: 

  1. Complete a bachelor degree in science or agriculture, with a major or focus in animal science.
  2. Build knowledge of animal biology, nutrition, genetics and welfare.
  3. Gain practical experience through farm work, laboratory work or research projects.
  4. Develop skills in experiment design, data analysis and reporting.
  5. Consider postgraduate study for research and specialist roles.

How long does it take to become an animal scientist?

UniSQ's Bachelor of Science takes three years of full-time study, or longer if you study part time or externally. The Animal Science major includes on-campus residential schools, providing valuable hands-on experience through practical classes and laboratory work.

Building the experience to work independently, especially in research, usually takes a few more years, and many animal scientists complete postgraduate study. Practical time on farms and in laboratories helps turn study into applied skill. 

Start your journey with UniSQ

Build the science and practical skills for a career in animal science with a UniSQ science degree, where you can major in animal science and learn about animal production, nutrition and welfare. 

Bachelor of Science
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Responsibilities and work settings

Day-to-day responsibilities

Designing and running animal production and nutrition trials.

Collecting and analysing biological and performance data.

Advising on breeding, feeding and welfare practices.

Monitoring animal health and productivity.

Preparing research reports and industry recommendations.

Where you might work

Agricultural and agribusiness organisations

Environmental and sustainability organisations

Government agencies, departments and councils

Manufacturing and industrial companies

Research institutes and research centres

Universities and higher education providers

Animal scientist FAQs

An animal scientist's average salary varies varies with experience, employer and whether the role sits in research, industry or government. Refer to the salary information on this page for further details.

Most animal scientists hold a bachelor degree in science or agriculture with a focus on animal science. There is no mandatory licence, so employers look for a mix of formal study and practical experience. Many research and specialist roles also expect a postgraduate qualification. 

Day-to-day, an animal scientist might run production or nutrition trials, collect and analyse data, monitor animal health, and write up findings for research or industry. The work is usually split between laboratories, farms and offices. 

Animal science is a strong choice for people who want a science-based career connected to animals, farming and food production. Your Career rates future demand for Agricultural Scientists, the closest published occupation, as moderate, and Australian agriculture continues to rely on animal scientists to improve productivity, welfare and sustainability. A UniSQ science degree with an Animal Science major provides the foundation to enter the field. 

Animal scientists work across agribusinesses, research institutes, universities and government agriculture departments. The role usually mixes laboratory and farm-based work with data analysis and reporting. 

Related careers

Agricultural consultant
Biologist

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Disclaimer: UniSQ’s Career Finder is a guide only. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, career information may change over time. Career statistics are sourced from Your Career and Jobs and Skills Australia. © Commonwealth of Australia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. Salary figures listed on this page are in Australian Dollars (AUD).