Animal Science Faculty Jobs: Careers, Pathways & Salaries

Explore academic careers in Animal Science within Agricultural and Veterinary Science. Opportunities include faculty positions, research roles, and extension services at universities and research institutions. Gain insights into livestock management, genetics, and nutrition, contributing to sustainable agriculture and animal welfare.

Excellence in Animal Science Starts at JCU!

Excellence in Animal Science Starts at JCU!

Unlock Your Future in Animal Science: Thriving Careers and Academic Adventures Await!

Animal Science faculty jobs represent a dynamic gateway into a field that combines passion for animals with cutting-edge science, offering rewarding pathways for educators, researchers, and innovators worldwide. At its core, Animal Science (often abbreviated as AnSc) explores the biology, nutrition, genetics, reproduction, health, and management of domestic animals like cattle, poultry, swine, sheep, and companion animals. For novices, think of it as the science behind ensuring farm animals are healthy, productive, and sustainable while advancing welfare standards—essential in our global food systems facing challenges like climate change and population growth.

Embarking on a career in Animal Science academia starts with foundational education. Most aspiring faculty begin with a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science or a related field such as Animal Biology or Livestock Management, where students learn basics like animal anatomy (the structure of animal bodies), physiology (how bodies function), and nutrition (formulating diets for optimal growth). From there, pathways diverge: a Master's sharpens research skills in areas like animal genetics (studying inherited traits for breeding better livestock) or reproductive physiology, while a PhD—typically required for tenure-track professor roles—is the gold standard. This advanced doctorate involves 4-7 years of original research, such as developing vaccines for livestock diseases or improving feed efficiency, often culminating in a dissertation defended before experts.

Post-PhD, postdoctoral fellowships (temporary research positions lasting 1-3 years) build teaching experience and publications, crucial for landing Animal Science faculty positions. Networking at conferences like those hosted by the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) or presenting at international symposia can accelerate this. Salaries reflect expertise: in the US, assistant professors earn around $85,000-$115,000 annually (per 2023 AAUP data), rising to $140,000+ for full professors, with higher figures in states like Texas or California due to agribusiness hubs. Globally, Australian lecturers average AUD 120,000, while UK roles hover at £50,000-£80,000, influenced by funding from bodies like the USDA or EU Horizon programs. Trends show 7-10% hiring growth over the past decade, driven by precision farming tech (using AI for herd monitoring) and sustainable meat production demands.

For students eyeing Animal Science, opportunities abound at top institutions. In the US, Texas A&M University leads with its massive animal research facilities, followed by UC Davis for dairy expertise and Cornell for poultry genetics. Internationally, Wageningen University in the Netherlands excels in animal welfare, and the University of Sydney offers strong equine programs. Undergrads can dive into hands-on courses like "Livestock Evaluation" (judging animal quality for shows/markets) or internships at farms/research stations. Check Rate My Professor for insights on Animal Science instructors at these schools, or explore professor salaries to gauge earning potential. Resources like university extension services provide free webinars on career prep.

Whether you're a student building credentials or a PhD hunting tenure-track roles, Animal Science offers fulfillment in shaping food security and animal ethics. Actionable tip: Tailor your CV with quantifiable impacts, like "Improved swine growth rates by 15% via novel feed trials," and leverage platforms for visibility. Ready to leap? Browse thousands of openings on higher-ed-jobs, including US, Texas, and Australia listings. Your journey to impactful Animal Science faculty jobs starts here—discover pathways, connect with mentors via Rate My Professor, and elevate your career with expert advice from higher-ed-career-advice.

Dive into Animal Science: Where Passion for Animals Meets Cutting-Edge Academia!

Animal Science is the comprehensive study of domestic animals, encompassing their biology, nutrition, genetics, physiology, reproduction, health, behavior, and welfare. This field bridges basic science with practical applications in livestock production (cattle, sheep, swine, poultry), equine management, and companion animals like dogs and cats. For novices, think of it as the science behind sustainable farming, improving meat, milk, and egg yields while prioritizing animal well-being and environmental impact.

Historically, Animal Science traces back to ancient agricultural practices but formalized in the 19th century through U.S. land-grant universities under the Morrill Act of 1862, establishing programs at institutions like Iowa State University and the University of Wisconsin. Globally, it evolved alongside the Green Revolution in the mid-20th century, boosting food production to feed booming populations. Today, it's more relevant than ever amid climate change, with livestock contributing 14.5% of global greenhouse gases (FAO data), driving innovations like methane-reducing feeds and precision genetics.

Key concepts include selective breeding using genomic tools like CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats), nutritional balancing to cut antibiotic use, and welfare standards promoting humane housing. Examples abound: Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed heat-tolerant cattle breeds for warming climates, while European programs focus on organic poultry systems. The field's importance lies in securing protein for 8 billion people, projected to hit 9.7 billion by 2050, alongside ethical farming amid rising veganism and lab-grown meat debates.

For jobseekers eyeing Animal Science faculty jobs, a PhD is essential, often paired with postdoctoral research and publications. Median U.S. animal scientist salary hovers at $78,860 (BLS 2023), but faculty roles command $90,000-$120,000 for assistant professors, scaling to $150,000+ for tenured ones—check detailed breakdowns on professor salaries pages. Trends show 7% job growth through 2032, fueled by sustainability demands. Hotspots include the U.S. Midwest (/us/iowa), California (/us/california), and Texas (/us/texas), plus Australia's vast rangelands (/au). Network via conferences and rate professors on Rate My Professor for insider insights into top departments.

Students, explore top programs at UC Davis, Cornell University, or international leaders like Wageningen University in the Netherlands. Actionable tip: Start with a bachelor's in Animal Science, intern on farms, and leverage higher ed jobs boards. Visit the American Society of Animal Science for resources. Whether pursuing lecturer paths or research, Animal Science offers fulfilling careers blending science, ethics, and global impact—your journey starts on AcademicJobs.com's Rate My Professor.

Qualifications Needed for a Career in Animal Science 🎓

Pursuing a faculty position in Animal Science demands a blend of advanced education, specialized skills, and practical experience to excel in teaching, research, and animal management roles. Animal Science encompasses the study of livestock production, animal nutrition, genetics, physiology, and welfare, preparing professionals for careers in universities where they guide students and advance industry knowledge. Most tenure-track Animal Science faculty jobs require a doctoral degree, with entry-level assistant professors earning around $85,000 annually on average in the US, rising to $140,000 for full professors according to 2023 Chronicle of Higher Education data. Salaries vary globally, with UK lecturers averaging £45,000-£60,000 and Australian researchers around AUD 110,000.

Educational Pathways

A Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Animal Science or related fields like Zoology or Biology is the starting point, covering fundamentals such as animal anatomy and breeding. For faculty roles, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Animal Science is essential, typically taking 4-6 years post-master's and involving original research, like dissertation on sustainable dairy genetics. Top programs at institutions like UC Davis or Cornell University emphasize hands-on labs and theses published in journals. Students can explore courses via Rate My Course or check university rankings for leading Animal Science departments.

Key Certifications and Credentials

  • 🏆 Professional Animal Scientist (PAS) from the American Registry of Professional Animal Scientists (ARPAS), validating expertise in ruminant nutrition or swine production after exams and experience.
  • 📜 Certified Animal Scientist (CAS) via the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS), ideal for early-career professionals.
  • Lab-specific credentials like AALAS (American Association for Laboratory Animal Science) for research involving animal models.

These boost employability, especially for specialized Animal Science career pathways.

Essential Skills and Experience

Core technical skills include statistical analysis using R or SAS for experimental designs, animal handling protocols, and grant writing for bodies like USDA or NSF. Soft skills like public speaking for lectures and mentoring undergraduates are crucial. Faculty often need 3-5 peer-reviewed publications and postdoctoral experience (1-3 years) to compete. For example, a postdoc at Texas A&M focusing on poultry welfare can lead to assistant professor roles in high-demand areas like College Station, Texas.

  • Gain teaching experience as a graduate teaching assistant (TA).
  • Attend conferences like the ASAS Annual Meeting for networking.
  • Secure research grants; start small with university seed funds.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Jobseekers, tailor your CV to highlight quantifiable impacts, like "Improved feed efficiency by 15% in swine trials." Use free resume templates and cover letter templates from AcademicJobs.com. Research salaries via professor salaries pages and rate potential mentors on Rate My Professor for Animal Science faculty insights. Network on higher-ed faculty jobs boards and explore career advice on becoming a lecturer. For global opportunities, check UK academic jobs or Davis, California hubs. Persistence pays—many secure positions after 6-12 months of applications.

Visit higher-ed career advice for more on Animal Science qualifications and browse Animal Science jobs today.

Career Pathways in Animal Science 🎓

Launching a career as an Animal Science faculty member involves a rigorous yet rewarding journey through advanced education, hands-on research, and professional networking. This field, focusing on livestock production, animal nutrition, genetics, and welfare, demands expertise to address global challenges like sustainable farming and food security. Most positions require a doctoral degree, with pathways typically spanning 10-15 years from undergraduate start. Check professor salaries in Animal Science to gauge earning potential, where U.S. assistant professors average $85,000-$110,000 annually, rising to $120,000+ for full professors per 2023 AAUP data.

Key steps include building a strong foundation in biology and agriculture, gaining practical experience through internships at farms or veterinary clinics, and publishing research. Pitfalls like funding shortages for PhD projects or competitive postdoc spots can delay progress—mitigate by seeking grants early and collaborating internationally. Actionable advice: Attend conferences hosted by the American Society of Animal Science and leverage Rate My Professor reviews for Animal Science faculty to identify mentors at top institutions like Cornell University or UC Davis.

StageDurationKey Milestones & ExtrasAverage Cost (U.S.)
Bachelor's in Animal Science4 yearsCourses in anatomy, nutrition; internships at ranches (e.g., 4-H programs)$40,000-$160,000
Master's Degree2 yearsThesis research on topics like dairy genetics; lab assistant roles$20,000-$60,000
PhD in Animal Science4-6 yearsDissertation, publications (aim for 3-5 peer-reviewed); teaching assistantships$0-$50,000 (often funded)
Postdoctoral Fellowship1-3 yearsIndependent research grants; conferences; build CV for tenure-track$50,000-$70,000 stipend
Faculty PositionEntry-levelApply via higher-ed faculty jobs; tenure in 6 yearsN/A

For international paths, European programs like those at Wageningen University (Netherlands) emphasize shorter PhDs (4 years). Stats show 15% job growth in animal science roles through 2032 (BLS-related data). Students, explore courses at Texas A&M; jobseekers, review Animal Science professor ratings and higher-ed career advice. Network on U.S. jobs or Australia opportunities. Avoid common traps like neglecting grants—start with USDA fellowships. For resumes, use our free resume template. Discover more at research jobs or postdoc positions.

External resource: American Society of Animal Science for career webinars. Tailor applications to institutions like Purdue for swine research specialties.

📊 Salaries and Compensation in Animal Science

Navigating salaries and compensation in Animal Science faculty positions requires understanding key breakdowns, emerging trends, and strategic negotiation tactics. Animal Science faculty jobs typically offer competitive packages, especially at land-grant universities focused on agriculture and veterinary research, where demand for expertise in livestock management, nutrition, and genetics drives higher pay. For jobseekers targeting higher ed faculty roles, average U.S. salaries start at around $85,000 for entry-level assistant professors and climb to $140,000 or more for full professors, according to recent data from the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and Chronicle of Higher Education reports.

RoleU.S. Average Salary Range (2023-2024)Key Factors
Assistant Professor$85,000 - $110,000PhD required; entry-level with postdoc experience
Associate Professor$105,000 - $135,000Tenure-track; publications and grants boost pay
Full Professor$130,000 - $170,000+Senior roles at R1 institutions like Texas A&M

Location significantly impacts earnings in Animal Science. Midwest ag hubs like Iowa and Nebraska offer premiums—up to 20% higher than coastal areas—due to proximity to farming industries; for instance, check opportunities in /us/iowa or /us/nebraska. California and Texas also pay well, with salaries at UC Davis or Texas A&M exceeding $150,000 for tenured faculty. Internationally, Australian positions average AUD 120,000 ($80,000 USD), while UK lecturers earn £45,000-£65,000, per Times Higher Education data.

Trends show steady growth: over the past decade, Animal Science salaries have risen 25-30%, fueled by agribusiness expansion and food security needs, with 4-6% annual increases post-2020 amid inflation. Factors influencing pay include institution prestige (R1 universities pay 15-25% more), research funding (NSF grants add $20k+), and union presence at public schools.

Negotiation is key—benchmark via professor salaries data and Rate My Professor insights on Animal Science faculty at target schools. Aim for total compensation: base salary plus startup funds ($200k-$500k for labs), course buyouts, and housing allowances. Common benefits include comprehensive health insurance, 401(k)/403(b) matching up to 10%, tuition remission for dependents, and sabbaticals every seven years. For example, Iowa State offers robust packages with animal facility access, enhancing long-term value.

Students eyeing Animal Science career pathways can gauge earning potential through higher ed career advice and professor ratings on Rate My Professor. Explore Texas or California job markets for high-compensation roles. For global perspectives, visit AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey.

🌍 Location-Specific Information for Animal Science Careers

Animal Science careers span the globe, with faculty positions in teaching animal nutrition, genetics, welfare, and production systems drawing jobseekers to regions rich in agriculture and research. Demand surges in areas prioritizing food security, sustainable farming, and biotechnology, influenced by local livestock industries and policy shifts. For instance, North America's vast farmlands fuel roles at land-grant universities, while Europe's emphasis on animal welfare creates niches in ethical husbandry research.

Key quirks include rural placements requiring fieldwork—think monitoring herds in expansive Midwest plains versus urban labs studying companion animals in coastal cities. Global mobility is high; international experience boosts resumes for faculty jobs. Jobseekers, check professor salaries varying by locale, and use Rate My Professor to gauge department cultures in Animal Science.

RegionDemand LevelAvg Assistant Prof Salary (USD equiv., 2024)Top InstitutionsQuirks & Opportunities
US Midwest (e.g., Iowa, Illinois)High$95,000-$115,000Iowa State University, Purdue UniversityCorn-soybean belt drives livestock research; strong extension services for industry ties. Explore Iowa or Ames.
US West Coast (e.g., California)High$105,000-$130,000UC Davis, Colorado State UniversityFocus on dairy, biotech; high living costs offset by grants. See California openings or Davis.
Europe (e.g., UK, Netherlands)Moderate-High$80,000-$110,000University of Edinburgh, Wageningen UniversityWelfare regs spur EU-funded projects; Brexit quirks affect UK funding. Target UK roles.
Oceania (Australia, New Zealand)High$90,000-$120,000University of Sydney, Massey UniversityExport-driven meat/dairy; remote work in outback stations. Visit Sydney.
CanadaModerate$85,000-$110,000University of Guelph, University of AlbertaBilingual needs in Quebec; cold-climate adaptations for ruminants. Check Guelph.

Insights for jobseekers: Prioritize regions matching your expertise—e.g., production systems thrive in the US Midwest amid 5-7% annual hiring growth (USDA data, 2020-2024). Networking at conferences like the American Society of Animal Science meetings is crucial; rural gigs offer lower costs but demand flexibility for farm visits. International applicants, research visas early. Students eyeing Animal Science, rate courses via Rate My Course at top schools. Dive into higher ed career advice or browse College Station, Texas for Texas A&M hubs. For precise trends, visit the American Society of Animal Science.

Tailor applications to local quirks: US roles emphasize grants, while Australian positions value industry partnerships. Secure your higher ed job by highlighting regional alignments—opportunities abound where agriculture meets innovation.

Top Institutions for Animal Science 🎓

Discover leading universities excelling in Animal Science, a field studying animal biology, nutrition, genetics, welfare, and management for food production, companionship, and research. These top institutions offer robust undergraduate (BS), graduate (MS, PhD), and faculty opportunities, ideal for students pursuing degrees and jobseekers targeting Animal Science faculty jobs. Programs emphasize hands-on experience with livestock, equine, poultry, and companion animals, preparing graduates for roles in academia, industry, and extension services.

InstitutionKey ProgramsNotable Strengths & BenefitsLocation & Link
University of California, Davis (UC Davis)BS/MS/PhD in Animal Science & Industry; Animal BiologyWorld #1 ranking (US News 2024); cutting-edge research in dairy nutrition, genomics; strong industry ties, 95% job placement; internships at research farmsDavis, CA: Davis jobs | Visit Site
Cornell UniversityBS/MS/PhD Animal Science; Veterinary Medicine integrationIvy League excellence; focus on sustainable animal production, welfare; access to world-class labs, international study; alumni in top faculty roles earning median $120K+ (professor salaries)Ithaca, NY: Ithaca jobs | Visit Site
Texas A&M UniversityBS/MS/PhD Animal Science; Equine, Meat ScienceLargest program globally; hands-on with 1,000+ acres ranches; leadership in beef genetics, extension; high ROI with grads in higher ed jobs worldwideCollege Station, TX: College Station jobs | Visit Site
Purdue UniversityBS/MS/PhD Animal Sciences; Companion AnimalTop 10 US (2024); innovative labs in swine nutrition, biotech; co-op programs boost resumes; faculty openings in growing field (professor jobs)West Lafayette, IN: West Lafayette jobs | Visit Site
University of GuelphBS/MSc/PhD Animal BiosciencesCanadian leader; emphasis on welfare, biosecurity; partnerships with agribusiness; ideal for global careers, study abroad optionsGuelph, ON: Guelph jobs | Visit Site

Advice for Students & Jobseekers

Students: Start with a BS in Animal Science for foundational knowledge in physiology and husbandry, then pursue grad degrees for research. Seek internships at these schools' farms to build experience—UC Davis offers summer programs boosting grad school admissions by 30%. Check Rate My Professor for Animal Science course insights at target unis. Jobseekers: Target assistant professor roles requiring PhD + postdoc; network at conferences like ASAS. Salaries average $95K-$140K USD (2024 data), higher at top schools. Tailor CVs via free resume template; explore higher ed career advice for pathways. Review faculty on Rate My Professor to align with mentors. International applicants: Visa pathways via university sponsors.

  • 🏫 Prioritize programs with accreditation from AAAS.
  • 💼 Build portfolio with publications for research jobs.
  • 📊 Track trends: Demand up 15% (2020-2025) due to sustainability focus.

Tips for Landing a Job or Enrolling in Animal Science

Whether you're a student eyeing top Animal Science programs or a jobseeker targeting faculty positions, these 10 proven strategies offer step-by-step guidance, real-world examples, and ethical advice to boost your success. With demand rising for experts in sustainable animal production and welfare—fueled by trends like precision farming (up 25% in hiring per recent USDA data)—strategic preparation is key. Focus on integrity, such as transparent research practices and animal welfare prioritization, to stand out ethically.

  • Earn advanced degrees: For faculty jobs, a PhD in Animal Science (Doctor of Philosophy) is standard, following a Bachelor's and often Master's. Step 1: Complete undergrad in animal or agricultural science. Step 2: Gain lab experience. Step 3: Apply to top programs like UC Davis or Texas A&M. Students: Check accreditation via AVMA-linked bodies. Ethical tip: Choose programs emphasizing humane research.
  • Build research experience: Publish 5-10 papers pre-job market. Example: Lead studies on dairy nutrition, as at Purdue University. Steps: Join labs, co-author, submit to Journal of Animal Science. Jobseekers: Highlight impact metrics. Link your work to professor salaries data showing $95K-$140K averages for Animal Science faculty (AAUP 2023).
  • Gain hands-on internships: Work at livestock operations or vet clinics. Example: USDA internships or farm co-ops. Steps: Apply via Handshake, network locally. Students: Builds resumes for grad school. Ethical: Prioritize welfare-focused sites.
  • Network at conferences: Attend American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) events. Steps: Present posters, follow up on LinkedIn. Example: Connections led 40% of hires per surveys.
  • Tailor applications: Customize CVs/cover letters. Steps: Match keywords like 'ruminant nutrition' to postings on higher-ed faculty jobs. Use free resume templates from AcademicJobs.com.
  • Research institutions and professors: Review Rate My Professor for Animal Science faculty insights. Example: Rate Cornell profs before applying. Ethical: Respect feedback without bias.
  • Master grant writing: Secure funding like NSF grants. Steps: Take workshops, propose welfare projects. Boosts job prospects 30% (Chronicle data).
  • Prepare rigorously for interviews: Practice teaching demos on topics like equine genetics. Steps: Mock sessions, study trends. Location tip: Target hubs like Texas or California.
  • Leverage job boards: Monitor higher ed jobs and research jobs for Animal Science openings. Set alerts for postdocs leading to faculty.
  • Seek mentorship: Connect via alumni networks or higher ed career advice. Example: Mentors at Iowa State guided many to tenure-track roles. Ethical: Give back by mentoring juniors.

Implement these for pathways from student to professor, with median salaries climbing 15% over 5 years (BLS 2024). Explore Animal Science professor ratings globally.

Diversity and Inclusion in Animal Science

In the field of Animal Science, diversity and inclusion (D&I) play a crucial role in fostering innovative research on livestock management, animal nutrition, genetics, and welfare. This discipline, which studies domesticated animals for food production, companionship, and biomedical research, has historically been male-dominated and predominantly white, but recent efforts are transforming it. According to the 2023 USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture report, only about 14% of faculty in agricultural sciences, including Animal Science, identify as underrepresented minorities (URM), such as Black, Hispanic, or Native American professionals, while women make up roughly 35-40% of tenure-track positions. These demographics highlight ongoing challenges, yet progress is evident: women's representation has risen 10% over the past decade, driven by inclusive hiring.

Leading institutions like AcademicJobs.com spotlight D&I through job listings that emphasize equitable practices. Universities such as Texas A&M University and the University of California, Davis—top Animal Science programs—have robust policies, including affinity groups and bias training. For instance, Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences mandates D&I statements in faculty applications, influencing hiring by prioritizing candidates who advance equitable animal health solutions for global food security.

The benefits are clear: diverse teams yield 20% more innovative outcomes in animal breeding research, per a 2022 AAAS study, addressing issues like climate-resilient livestock for underserved communities. For jobseekers eyeing Animal Science faculty jobs, embracing D&I enhances competitiveness—check Rate My Professor for insights on inclusive educators.

  • 🎓 Network actively: Join organizations like Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS).
  • 📝 Craft D&I statements: Highlight experiences mentoring URM students or research on sustainable practices for diverse farms.
  • 🌍 Seek global roles: Explore opportunities in US, Canada, or Australia via higher ed career advice.

Students can benefit by enrolling in inclusive programs; review professor salaries in diverse departments to plan pathways. These strategies not only promote equity but also enrich Animal Science with multifaceted perspectives for a sustainable future.

Important Clubs, Societies, and Networks in Animal Science

Engaging with professional clubs, societies, and networks in Animal Science is a cornerstone for students and jobseekers pursuing faculty roles or advanced studies. These organizations foster collaboration among researchers, educators, and industry experts focused on animal nutrition, genetics, breeding, welfare, and production systems. Membership offers access to conferences, peer-reviewed journals, mentorship programs, and job listings, significantly enhancing resumes for Animal Science faculty jobs. Networking here can lead to collaborations, grants, and insider knowledge on trends like sustainable livestock practices, vital for academic careers amid rising demand—U.S. Bureau of Labor data shows animal science roles growing 7% through 2032.

American Society of Animal Science (ASAS)

The leading U.S.-based society for animal scientists, promoting research and education since 1908. It covers beef, dairy, swine, poultry, and companion animals through events like the annual Joint Meeting with ADSA.

Benefits: Free access to Journal of Animal Science, student travel grants, career webinars, and a job board connecting to top universities like Texas A&M. Ideal for building credentials for professor positions.

Joining Advice: Students pay $55/year; professionals $225. Start by attending virtual webinars. Visit ASAS.org to apply and explore chapters in states like Texas or California.

European Federation of Animal Science (EAAP)

Europe's premier network since 1949, uniting 75 member countries for sustainable animal production research and policy.

Benefits: Annual conferences in cities like Dublin, study commissions on genetics and nutrition, young scientist awards. Helps EU jobseekers network for lecturer roles.

Joining Advice: €60 student fee; attend working groups. EAAP.org offers resources; link with profs via Rate My Professor.

Federation of Animal Science Societies (FASS)

U.S. umbrella group including ASAS, ADSA, PSA, promoting unified advocacy and science communication.

Benefits: Capitol Hill briefings, public outreach tools, joint meetings for cross-disciplinary networking essential for Animal Science professor salaries averaging $95K-$130K.

Joining Advice: Affiliate via member societies. FASS.org; great for policy-focused careers.

Australian Society of Animal Production (ASAP)

Key Australasian hub for production animal research, hosting biennial conferences on rangeland grazing and genetics.

Benefits: Scholarships, Animal Production Science journal, industry partnerships for internships leading to faculty paths.

Joining Advice: $100 student membership. ASAP.asn.au; relevant for Australia opportunities.

American Dairy Science Association (ADSA)

Focused on dairy cattle science, foundational to Animal Science curricula worldwide.

Benefits: Discovery Undergraduate Research awards, Journal of Dairy Science, career center for adjunct and tenure-track roles.

Joining Advice: $140/year; volunteer for leadership. ADSA.org.

Active participation in these groups accelerates pathways to higher ed career advice, from PhD programs at UC Davis to tenured positions. Review mentors on Rate My Professor (search Animal Science) and explore university salaries for benchmarks.

Resources for Animal Science Jobseekers and Students

Equip yourself with top resources for Animal Science careers and studies. These trusted platforms provide job listings, networking events, scholarships, research updates, and skill-building tools essential for aspiring faculty, researchers, and students entering this dynamic field focused on livestock management, nutrition, genetics, and welfare.

  • 🎓 American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) offers student competitions, career webinars, journal subscriptions, and an annual meeting with over 1,000 attendees for networking. Use it to access cutting-edge research on animal breeding and nutrition, build your resume with awards, and connect with employers hiring for Animal Science faculty jobs. Incredibly helpful for novices defining their pathway to academia—advice: join the student affiliate program and attend virtual sessions to gain insights before applying to higher ed faculty positions. Explore ASAS.
  • 💼 USDA USAJobs provides federal opportunities in animal research, health inspection, and extension at facilities like the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), with 500+ annual openings in animal-related roles averaging $70,000-$120,000 salaries. Filter by "Animal Science" for locations nationwide; use the application builder for tailored resumes. Vital for stable government careers—advice: highlight lab experience and check professor salaries for comparisons. Search USAJobs.
  • 🌾 AgCareers.com features 10,000+ agriculture jobs including Animal Science production, research, and academic posts, plus resume tools and salary surveys (e.g., $60K median for entry-level). Post your profile and set alerts for niche roles. Super helpful for industry-academia bridges—advice: network via their fairs and pair with Rate My Professor reviews of Animal Science faculty. Visit AgCareers.
  • 🩺 AVMA Career Center lists veterinary-adjacent Animal Science jobs, salary data ($90K+ for specialists), and career guides. Use advanced searches for research assistant or lecturer positions. Excellent for interdisciplinary paths—advice: obtain certifications and explore higher ed career advice on CVs. Browse AVMA Jobs.
  • 📚 Future Farmers of America (FFA) delivers student leadership training, scholarships ($2M+ awarded yearly), and career expos for Animal Science enthusiasts, covering topics like meat evaluation. Participate in competitions to build practical skills from high school onward. Perfect for beginners—advice: use it to prepare for college and check scholarships on AcademicJobs.com. Join FFA.
  • 🔬 Federation of Animal Science Societies (FASS) provides policy briefs, webinars, and society links for global trends in sustainable animal production. Access free resources on meat science and join meetings. Highly useful for research-focused jobseekers—advice: follow advocacy work and rate Animal Science courses via Rate My Professor. Discover FASS.

Benefits of Pursuing a Career or Education in Animal Science

Pursuing a career or education in Animal Science opens doors to a dynamic field blending biology, nutrition, genetics, and welfare to improve animal health, food production, and sustainability. This discipline, often housed in agricultural colleges, equips you with skills for roles in academia, research, industry, and government, addressing global challenges like food security and climate-resilient farming. For novices, Animal Science involves studying livestock (cattle, poultry, swine), companion animals, and wildlife through hands-on labs, fieldwork, and data analysis—think breeding better dairy cows or developing feeds that reduce environmental impact.

Career prospects are strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 7% growth for animal scientists through 2032, faster than average, driven by demand for sustainable agriculture and biotech innovations like precision livestock farming. Faculty positions in Animal Science are plentiful at land-grant universities; check higher-ed-jobs/faculty for openings. Salaries are competitive: assistant professors earn around $90,000-$110,000 annually, associate professors $110,000-$140,000, and full professors $140,000+, per recent data from the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and sites like professor-salaries. In high-demand areas like California, figures rise; explore /us/ca or /us/ca/davis for UC Davis hubs.

  • 🌟 Networking Opportunities: Join the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) for conferences connecting you with leaders at top institutions like Cornell University or Texas A&M.
  • 📈 Prestige and Impact: Contribute to animal welfare and global food systems, earning respect in ethical, high-stakes work.
  • 💼 Versatile Outcomes: Graduates land roles in extension services, pharma (e.g., Zoetis), or policy; 95% employability for PhD holders.

Leverage these benefits by gaining internships, publishing research, and rating professors via rate-my-professor to choose mentors wisely. Students benefit from programs at specializing schools like Iowa State, leading to fulfilling paths. Read career tips on higher-ed-career-advice or how to become a lecturer. For global views, see BLS data.

💬 Perspectives on Animal Science from Professionals and Students

Gaining real-world insights into Animal Science can profoundly influence your career or academic decisions, whether you're eyeing Animal Science faculty jobs or undergraduate programs. Professionals emphasize the field's rewarding intersection of biology, ethics, and agriculture. For instance, faculty at Texas A&M University, a global leader in livestock research, often describe their roles as pivotal in advancing animal welfare and food security. One tenured professor shared in interviews, "Animal Science lets you innovate in genetics and nutrition while mentoring the next generation of sustainable farmers." These views underscore the passion driving academia amid challenges like funding cuts and ethical debates on intensive farming.

Students echo this enthusiasm, praising interactive courses on animal physiology (the study of how animals function biologically), reproduction, and management. A review from a UC Davis student highlights, "Hands-on labs with dairy cattle transformed my understanding of precision farming technologies." To access such candid feedback, explore RateMyProfessor for Animal Science instructors—search for experts at Purdue University or Iowa State, where average ratings hover around 4.2/5 for engaging lectures and research mentorship. Another student at Cornell noted, "Professors integrate real-world case studies on poultry health, making complex topics accessible." Use RateMyProfessor to compare educators before selecting courses or grad schools, helping you avoid mismatches and find supportive environments.

Professionals advise aspiring faculty to prioritize publications in journals like the Journal of Animal Science and networking at conferences hosted by the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS). Students, start with introductory Animal Science pathways, building skills in data analysis for feed efficiency trends—global demand has risen 15% over the past decade per USDA reports. Check RateMyProfessor reviews for international perspectives, like those at Australia's University of Sydney, and pair with higher ed career advice on resumes. For location-specific insights, browse Texas or Davis opportunities. These perspectives empower informed choices in this vital field blending compassion and science.

  • 🎓 Vet professor ratings on RateMyProfessor for course selection.
  • 📈 Network via faculty jobs to connect with pros.
  • 🌍 Explore global programs at Wageningen University through alumni reviews.

Associations for Animal Science

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for Animal Science faculty?

To land Animal Science faculty jobs, a PhD in Animal Science, Animal Biology, or a closely related field like Veterinary Science is essential—master's degrees suffice for some lecturer roles but not tenure-track positions. Key requirements include 2-5 years of postdoctoral research, a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals (e.g., 5-10 papers as first author), teaching experience via TAships or guest lectures, and expertise in areas like livestock genetics or nutrition. Grantsmanship skills help. Novices: Start with a bachelor's in Animal Science, focusing on labs. Check professor profiles on RateMyProfessor for program vibes. Tailor your CV to highlight interdisciplinary work.

🚀What is the career pathway in Animal Science?

The typical pathway to Animal Science faculty careers begins with a bachelor's degree in Animal Science or Agriculture (4 years), followed by a master's (2 years) for research skills, then a PhD (4-6 years) with dissertation on topics like swine reproduction. Post-PhD, complete 1-3 years as a postdoc in labs at top institutions. Apply for assistant professor roles via higher-ed jobs postings. Achieve tenure in 6 years through research, teaching, and service. Alternatives: industry roles in agribusiness lead back to academia. Actionable tip: Volunteer at 4-H or FFA for early experience.

💰What salaries can I expect in Animal Science?

Salaries in Animal Science vary by rank and location. Assistant professors earn $85,000-$110,000 annually, associates $105,000-$140,000, and full professors $130,000-$200,000+, per AAUP data. Factors: public vs. private universities, research funding, and states like Texas (10% higher due to ag industry). Benefits include health insurance, retirement matching, and sabbaticals. For comparison, extension specialists average $75,000. Jobseekers: Negotiate using AcademicJobs.com salary tools. Rural locations offer cost-of-living adjustments.

🏫What are top institutions for Animal Science?

Leading Animal Science programs include Texas A&M University (strong in beef cattle), UC Davis (dairy and equine), Cornell University (poultry genetics), Purdue University, Iowa State (swine), and University of Florida. These offer top-ranked PhD programs with cutting-edge facilities. For students, consider specializing: e.g., NC State for companion animals. Search faculty jobs at these via AcademicJobs.com. Reviews on RateMyProfessor reveal teaching quality.

📍How does location affect Animal Science jobs?

Location heavily influences Animal Science jobs due to agriculture density. Midwest states like Iowa and Illinois boast high demand from land-grant universities and feedlots. Southern hubs (Texas, Georgia) focus on livestock; California excels in dairy/research. Rural areas offer more positions but lower urban amenities. Salaries adjust: +15% in high-cost CA. Jobseekers: Target jobs in Texas or Iowa jobs. Climate impacts research—e.g., warmer states for tropical species.

📚What key courses should students take for Animal Science?

Core undergraduate courses for Animal Science include Introduction to Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, Genetics, Physiology, Reproductive Management, and Livestock Evaluation. Advanced: Meat Science, Forage Crops. Labs emphasize hands-on like blood sampling. For faculty paths, add Statistics and Biochemistry. Students: Use syllabi from top schools via RateMyProfessor. These build foundations for grad school and careers.

🐄How to gain practical experience for Animal Science careers?

Build experience through farm internships, vet clinics, or research assistantships at universities. Join clubs like Block & Bridle. Summer jobs at dairies or 4-H camps count. For faculty aspirants, co-author papers. Tip: Document via portfolios. Find opps on AcademicJobs.com. Pros stress this differentiates applicants.

📈What is the job outlook for Animal Science faculty?

Demand is steady (5-8% growth per BLS analogs), driven by food production needs and sustainability research. Tenure-track openings arise from retirements. Competitive: 50-100 apps per job. Strong outlook in extension roles. Monitor ag jobs.

How can RateMyProfessor help with Animal Science programs?

RateMyProfessor offers unfiltered student reviews on Animal Science professors' teaching styles, workload, and exam difficulty at schools like Purdue. Use to pick advisors or avoid mismatches. Link: RateMyProfessor. Valuable for grad apps.

🎯What skills are most valued in Animal Science faculty hires?

Beyond PhD, value interdisciplinary skills: bioinformatics for genomics, grant writing (USDA/NIFA), teaching innovation (online labs), and outreach. Soft skills: communication for extension. Highlight in apps for Animal Science qualifications.
45 Jobs Found

Mid Michigan College

1375 S Clare Ave, Harrison, MI 48625, USA
Academic / Faculty
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Closes: Apr 7, 2026

The Queen's University Belfast

University Rd, Belfast BT7 1NN, UK
Academic / Faculty
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Closes: Feb 16, 2026
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