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Animal Biologist Job Description

What does an Animal Biologist do?

An Animal Biologist is responsible for studying the biological processes and behaviours of animals in their natural habitats and in captivity. They use a variety of scientific methods to observe and analyze animal behaviour, genetics, physiology, and ecology. Their research helps to improve our understanding of animal populations, their evolution and biodiversity. Animal Biologists conduct research on different types of animals, including domesticated, wild, or endangered species. They may work in a variety of settings, such as laboratories, zoos, aquariums, and wildlife conservation areas, and their findings often contribute to the protection and conservation of animal species and ecosystems.

Our Animal Biologist job description includes the Animal Biologist responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.

Animal Biologist Example


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If you need an example job description for an Animal Biologist download the one below, alternatively we have many other Science job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.

What does an Animal Biologist do?

Animal Biologist Job Summary

A Animal Biologist is responsible for researching and studying the behaviour, genetics, and life cycles of a variety of animals. This can include wild and domestic animals, as well as endangered species. Animal Biologists often work in laboratories, in the field, or in a combination of both.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Conducting research to gain a better understanding of animal behaviour, life cycles, genetics, and diseases

• Collecting and analysing data from field and laboratory studies

• Writing scientific papers and reports

• Presenting research findings at conferences

• Developing and implementing conservation plans

• Assisting with animal management and care

• Supervising and training research assistants

• Working with governmental agencies and other organisations to develop conservation plans and policies

• Educating the public about animal conservation and management

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, ecology, or a related field

• Strong analytical and quantitative skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Knowledge of computer software applications, such as GIS and statistical programs

• Ability to work in a variety of conditions, including extreme weather

• Ability to lift and move heavy equipment for field studies

Animal Biologist Role Purpose

The purpose of an animal biologist is to study the behaviour, physiology, structure and genetics of animals, both in the wild and in captivity. They aim to increase our understanding of the natural world and to develop ways of conserving and protecting species and their habitats. Animal biologists also conduct research to improve animal welfare and develop new techniques for animal husbandry and breeding.

Animal Biologist Role

An animal biologist is a professional who studies animals and their behaviour, ecology and physiology. They use their knowledge to develop and implement conservation plans, inform public policy, and educate people about animals. Animal biologists typically work in universities, research laboratories, zoos, conservation organisations, or government agencies.

Animal Biologist Duties

  • Conducting research into the behaviour, ecology and reproduction of animals
  • Collecting and analysing data from field studies
  • Designing and monitoring wildlife surveys
  • Developing and applying new technologies and techniques to the study of animals
  • Producing reports and other publications
  • Supervising and training technicians and other staff

Animal Biologist Requirements

  • BSc or higher in Animal Biology or a related field
  • Knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology and behaviour
  • Experience in laboratory research and data analysis

Animal Biologist Skills

  • Excellent knowledge of animal behaviour and physiology
  • Ability to collect and interpret data
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Good organisational and problem-solving skills

Animal Biologist Personal Traits

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Good organisational abilities
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to analyse data and draw conclusions

How to write an Animal Biologist Job Advert

Use our job advert template to write a job advert for posting on job sites and job boards. Our job advertising templates are carefully created to help you reach your audience and beat the competition to the best talent.

A job description informs the reader about a job, whereas a job advert’s main objective is to sell the job opportunity to attract as many suitable applicants possible. A job advert maybe the first touch-point a candidate has with your company so it is important to create a great impression.

Job Advertisements should enticing, so considering using short, exciting language which get the reader’s attention.

How to write an Animal Biologist Job Description

To write a job description, we recommend starting with a job description template from our job description library, which contains examples for 800+ positions and professions. Our job description examples include a job summary with duties and responsibilities and skills and requirements, which can be personalised for your job vacancy.

Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise an Animal Biologist Job Specification

The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.

Job Description Tips - Help on formatting an Animal Biologist Job Specification

When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:

Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.

Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.

Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.

The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.

Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth. 

Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources. 

Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.

Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.

Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.

How to Hire an Animal Biologist

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