Reproductive Physiologist Jobs in Animal Science
Reproductive physiology is a concentration in animal sciences that studies the reproductive cycle of animals. The discipline aims to enhance the productivity and efficiency of animal reproduction through research and the development of new technologies. Reproductive physiologists can work in a number of different settings including farms, universities, zoos and aquariums, veterinary hospitals and research labs.
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Universities
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Reproductive physiology is a required course for most animal science majors, and with an advanced degree in animal sciences, you can teach the subject at a university. Generally a Ph.D. or a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree is required to teach at the university level. Professors of reproductive physiology teach undergraduates the fundamentals of animal reproduction, supervise and advise students and conduct research. Professors are also expected to publish in journals and acquire funding for research projects.
Zoos and Aquariums
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Zoos and aquariums host a wide variety of animals, many of which have conservation and breeding programs. Reproducing in captivity is not considered easy, and reproductive physiologists serve as the lead experts and researchers, managing and sometimes establishing breeding programs at zoos and aquariums. Behavioral physiologists working in zoos and aquariums are required to conduct research on breeding techniques, write and publish research papers, oversee animal husbandry and collaborate with other scientists, as well as coordinate graduate and undergraduate researchers and interns working on reproduction projects.
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Farm and Stables
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Large-scale agricultural production facilities and larger horse stables have breeding programs that require breeding managers. As breeding managers, reproductive physiologists oversee all aspects of the breeding program, including the pairings, collection of sperm and artificial insemination, pregnancy and birth. In these work environments, the breeding manager is responsible for managing other staff, keeping records and research. A reproductive physiologist may also be brought in as a consultant to breeding programs or to start or improve a breeding program at a farm.
Research
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Reproductive physiologists are prime candidates for employment as a researcher. The reproductive success of farm animals is important for the national food supply and the economy. Government funding is available for private research facilities to conduct research, or reproductive physiologists can find direct employment with a government agency. Reproductive physiology researchers conduct research on topics like assisted reproductive technology, artificial insemination, ovulation and embryo transfer and cryopreservation.
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