Avian scientists work with domestic and game birds in various fields, including industrial agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and genetics. They may also work with flocks, develop new poultry products, and conserve rare breeds. Public outreach and education are also potential career paths. Degrees in poultry or animal science are available.
An avian scientist works with domestic birds and some game birds. Employment opportunities may include industrial agriculture, pharmaceutical development and marketing. Some people in this field research topics such as backyard flocks, hobby birds, and the development of new species of show birds displayed at shows and similar events. Degrees in poultry or animal science are available from a number of colleges and universities, as well as research opportunities in the field.
Some bird scientists work directly with flocks. They help farmers and food production companies in the development, maintenance and processing of flocks raised for eggs and meat. Facility design, implementation of feeding programs and the creation of new poultry products are also aspects of poultry science. Animal welfare assessments and inspections of individual birds to determine if they are suitable for the market can be part of an avian scientist’s job. When problems such as disease arise, the poultry scientist works with veterinarians and others to solve the problem and preserve the flock.
Genetics is also a topic of interest to poultry scientists, who can use breeding and genetic engineering to develop birds with desired traits. This can include rapid maturity, heavy muscle development to increase yield per bird, and so on. Work in animal genetics can also include creating tougher, more robust specimens for commercial production.
Slaughter, processing and grading of meats also fall under this career. Researchers can develop more efficient and safer processing techniques to protect workers and keep meat safe for use. Others may be interested in care and feeding practices and developing products for poultry farmers to improve outcomes. These poultry scientists may work for feed and pharmaceutical companies to meet industry needs.
While much of the work in this field takes place in the industrial agriculture sector, there are other activities for an avian scientist. Some may work on identifying and conserving rare breeds, including heritage birds. Others may be interested in aesthetic genetics and creating unusual looking birds for hobbyists and people who show birds.
Public outreach and education of people interested in backyard flocks is another potential career path for an avian scientist. This could include activities such as working with government officials to develop appropriate regional poultry keeping regulations or individual consultations with people who want to start keeping chickens, ducks, geese and other birds. Education for members of the public who want to kill and process their own birds can be another aspect of the work.
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