Animal Scientists
Animal scientists conduct research on domestic farm animals, focusing on genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth, and development. They work in laboratories, research facilities, universities, and agricultural organizations, designing studies and analyzing data to improve livestock health, productivity, and breeding practices.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against animal scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves designing experiments on animal populations, collecting biological samples, and analyzing research data in laboratory settings. Animal scientists may conduct field observations at farms or breeding facilities, review scientific literature, collaborate with veterinarians and nutritionists, write research reports, and present findings at meetings or in publications.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy solving complex problems through systematic investigation and hands-on work with biological systems. You're detail-oriented, comfortable with scientific methods and data analysis, and motivated by practical applications—such as improving food production or animal welfare—rather than abstract theories alone.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $76,110 | $132,830 | $182,590 | 40 |
| Minnesota | $76,530 | $88,640 | $143,610 | 100 |
| Wisconsin | $70,150 | $84,310 | $100,300 | 280 |
| Washington | $63,730 | $83,160 | $95,220 | 40 |
| Kansas | $63,200 | $80,090 | $112,190 | — |
| Maryland | $64,350 | $77,750 | $109,970 | 190 |
| Pennsylvania | $69,490 | $77,660 | $82,880 | 90 |
| South Dakota | $63,420 | $77,300 | $101,990 | 90 |
| Iowa | $59,280 | $75,290 | $135,690 | 60 |
| North Dakota | $53,390 | $72,100 | $90,710 | 40 |
| Michigan | $48,850 | $60,010 | $66,320 | 80 |
| Nebraska | $48,730 | $55,300 | $98,820 | 210 |
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) — American Association for Laboratory Animal Science
- Animal and Plant Biotechnology — NOCTI
- Board Certified in Animal Food Science — American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists
- Animal Systems — NOCTI
- Board Certified in Animal Genetics — American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists
- Board Certified in Applied Animal Behavior Sciences — American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against animal scientists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-1011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.