Careers in zoology are diverse and unique, and they can provide incredible learning and work opportunities for anyone who is passionate about animal research and welfare. The study of animals, or zoology, is a broad field with many subfields, including research, conservation, veterinary medicine, and the care of captive or domestic animals. Careers in zoology may be a dream come true for those who have a passion for animals and some training.
Some zoology careers are centered on research and scientific studies. These careers may allow those with a strong theoretical science background to design and conduct studies that will improve human understanding of animal behavior. Research in zoology can aid in the development of safer and more effective animal products, such as pet foods and humane traps, as well as teaching humans more about animal behavior to aid in conservation, breeding programs, and habitat preservation. Many animal scientists have backgrounds in both clinical biology and zoology.
Conservation-focused zoology careers place a premium on animal species’ continued survival and increased protection. Conservationists may work with political groups or governments to help develop legislation to protect and preserve animals, or they may work in the field collecting data on potential threats to global ecosystems’ health. Some conservationists work in educational settings, attempting to improve human efforts to save animals from extinction raising public awareness of their value and significance. Conservation-based zoology careers may be the right fit for those who are passionate about animal rights and ecology.
Animals are susceptible to illness and injury, and some zoology careers aid in the creation of a healthy, stable animal population. Veterinary medicine is a vital specialty field, and becoming a certified veterinarian can take several years of intensive training. While many veterinarians specialize in domestic pet care, veterinarians in rural areas frequently work with large farm animals, and more adventurous veterinarians may work with exotic species in zoos and wildlife preserves.
Humans have an insatiable desire to observe animals, and modern zoos and wildlife preserves cater to this desire while also providing facilities to aid conservation efforts and educate the public about animals. In zoos, zoology jobs can range from overseeing breeding programs to developing an okapi’s diet to cleaning the tiger’s cage. Though advanced positions frequently require a bachelor’s degree in zoology or biology, there are many volunteer and entry-level positions available for animal lovers who want to learn firsthand about the care and maintenance of exotic animals.