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How to Become An Animal Scientist

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What is a Animal Scientist

An Animal Scientist researches animal health, genetics, nutrition, and behaviour. They help make sure animals are healthy and well cared for across farms, research labs, and wildlife settings.

Day to day, Animal Scientists run experiments, collect data, and work out what it all means. They team up with farmers, vets, and conservation groups to put their findings into action. It is hands-on, varied, and important work.

The job also involves sharing knowledge. Animal Scientists write reports, present at conferences, and train farmers in better practices. If you like science and animals, this role lets you do both.

Animal science is one of the fastest-growing areas in Australian farming. Sustainable food production and stronger animal welfare laws are pushing demand for skilled scientists. It is a smart career choice for anyone who wants to shape the future of food and conservation.

Explore study options in Animal Care

Career Outlook for Animal Scientist

Animal science is a steady career choice in Australia. Around 3,400 people work as Agricultural Scientists nationally (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census). Demand is rated as moderate with stable employment levels.

Most Animal Scientists work full-time, about 43 hours a week on average. The median age is 41, and 31% are women (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census). Average earnings are around $1,934 per week, or roughly $100,500 a year (yourcareer.gov.au, 2024).

Growth is expected in areas like sustainable farming, animal welfare research, and food safety. New roles are also appearing in farming tech and gene science. Animal Scientists who keep their skills current will find strong prospects ahead.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become an Animal Scientist in Australia

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor of Animal Science or Agricultural Science

Enrol in a Bachelor of Animal Science, Bachelor of Agricultural Science, or a related degree at an Australian university. The course takes three years full-time and covers animal nutrition, genetics, body function, and behaviour. Universities offering this include Charles Sturt University, the University of New England, and the University of Queensland. If you cannot confirm the current national course code, check the national course register on training.gov.au.

Step 2: Build Practical Experience During Your Studies

Seek internships, vacation work, or part-time roles on farms, at research stations, or in vet settings while you study. This experience sharpens your skills and helps you build a professional network. Many employers expect at least 12 months of relevant work experience before hiring for research roles.

Step 3: Complete an Honours Year to Strengthen Research Skills

Enrol in an Honours year (one extra year full-time) after your bachelor’s degree to deepen your research skills. An Honours degree is often the minimum requirement for research positions at universities, CSIRO, and state agencies. Look for programs with strong livestock or animal science research groups at your chosen university.

Step 4: Consider Postgraduate Study for Specialisation

To specialise or lead your own research, consider a Master of Animal Science. Or pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Animal Science. A PhD takes three to four years full-time. Choose a focus area such as animal nutrition, breeding, or livestock genetics based on your career goals.

Step 5: Join a Professional Association and Stay Current

Join the Australian Association of Animal Sciences (AAAS) to access networking events, conferences, and career resources. Ongoing learning is expected in this field. Attending the annual AAAS conference and reading research journals will keep your skills sharp and support career growth.

What does an Animal Scientist do?

Animal Scientists have a busy and varied work life. They might spend mornings in the lab running tests on animal genetics or nutrition. Then they might head out to a farm in the afternoon. They gather data, work with farmers and vets, and turn findings into real improvements in animal care. Fieldwork, data analysis, and report writing are all part of the job. No two weeks look the same.

Tasks

Animal Scientists work across research, fieldwork, and industry. Their tasks vary depending on the setting. All focus on improving how animals are raised, studied, and cared for.

  • Design and carry out experiments on animal behaviour, genetics, and nutrition
  • Collect and analyse data from field studies and lab tests
  • Monitor the health and welfare of animals in research settings
  • Work with farmers and vets to put research findings into practice
  • Educate farmers and industry groups on better animal management
  • Help shape policies related to animal health and welfare
  • Carry out field studies on farms or in natural habitats
  • Write reports and scientific papers to share research results

Skills for Success

To do well as an Animal Scientist, you need solid skills in biology, animal body function, and data analysis. These are the building blocks for any research role in the field.

Communication skills matter just as much as scientific knowledge. You will need to explain complex findings to farmers, vets, officials, and the public. Being clear in writing and speaking opens more doors.

Problem-solving, curiosity, and a love of animal welfare are strong assets. The field keeps evolving, so a will to keep learning is essential. The ability to adapt and work in a team will help you thrive in both research and industry settings.

Skills & Attributes

  • Knowledge of animal biology and body function
  • Research design and data collection
  • Statistical analysis and data interpretation
  • Understanding of genetics and animal breeding
  • Laboratory and fieldwork techniques
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Project management
  • Understanding of animal welfare standards and ethics
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn
  • Time management

Average Salaries

Animal Scientists in Australia earn around $100,500 a year on average. This figure is based on a median weekly wage of $1,934 (yourcareer.gov.au, 2024). Entry-level roles typically pay around $82,000. Senior scientists with eight or more years of experience can earn up to $131,000 (SalaryExpert, 2026). Pay rises with extra skills, a focus area, and more years on the job.

min $82 K

max $131 K

av $101 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.