Overview:

Animal Biotechnologists are responsible for researching how nutrients in feed and/or animal reproductive processes impact animal health. They then create methods for more efficient production using their research findings.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Disseminate technical information to veterinarians or related animal health personnel
• Perform daily insemination, heat detection and schedule of the herd
• Maintain records of procedures, farm calls and emergencies
• Routine maintenance and sterilization of equipment and machinery
• Semen collection and processing semen orders
• Attend training programs and education workshops to ensure customer satisfaction
• On-farm training of personnel
• Analyze client needs and develop nutritional plans for their animal(s)
• Develop and test new feed supplements for farmers
• Assess new nutritional products and feed combinations
• Investigate nutritional disorders
• Write reports and give informational presentations regarding animal nutrition
• Customize ingredient blends and management programs
• Monitor feed formulations to meet standards and quality control regulations
• Evaluate chemical and nutritional value of feeds and feed supplements
• Coordinate research trials
• Initiate and support patent applications for securing new products
• Ensure health, safety and environmental procedures and regulations are put in place and followed
• Attend training when needed and coordinate training for team members
• Monitor laboratory analysis and assist when needed

What education and training is required?

A master’s degree in animal/poultry science or related major.

To pursue a career as an Animal Biotechnologist:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, a focus on sciences such as animal science, chemistry and biology, and mathematics.

Typical Employers:

Employed by food production companies, contract growers with integrated production facilities, animal pharmaceutical companies, and university research farms there are also some opportunities to be self-employed.

Future Job Market/Outlook:

The future outlook for Animal Biotechnologist will be good over the next five years.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations:

• National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
• Dairy Farmers of America
• American Poultry Association
• American Society of Animal Science
• National Institute for Animal Agriculture