Animal Behaviorist Professor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fascinating world of animal behavior, the role of an Animal Behaviorist Professor stands out as an esteemed vocation.

As our understanding of animal psychology and behavior expands, the demand for learned individuals who can teach, explore, and protect this intricate field of study increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Animal Behaviorist Professor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager creating the profile for the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the fascinating world of animal behavior studies,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Animal Behaviorist Professor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or university career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Animal Behaviorist Professor Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Behaviorist Professors are primarily responsible for conducting research in the field of animal behavior and teaching students about various aspects of animal behavior, including the effects of the environment and genetics on animal behavior.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research in the field of animal behavior, including field studies, lab experiments, and data analysis
• Teaching courses on animal behavior, ethology, animal psychology, and related subjects
• Developing and updating course syllabi and materials
• Assessing student performance and providing feedback
• Supervising student research and fieldwork
• Advising students on course selection, career paths, and research opportunities
• Contributing to the development of the department’s curriculum
• Presenting research findings at conferences and in academic journals
• Applying for and managing research grants
• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of developments in the field of animal behavior

 

Animal Behaviorist Professor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Animal Behaviorist Professor to join our faculty.

The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching courses related to animal behavior, conducting scientific research, and advising students.

Our ideal candidate should be adept in applying the principles of ethology, psychology, and ecology to understand the behavior of animals.

 

Responsibilities

• Teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in animal behavior and related fields
• Conducting and publishing original research in the field of animal behavior
• Advising and mentoring students
• Contributing to the development of the department’s curriculum
• Participating in academic committees and providing service to the academic community
• Obtaining external funding for research projects
• Staying updated on recent developments in animal behavior studies

 

Qualifications

• PhD in Animal Behavior, Ethology, or a related field
• Proven experience as a professor or lecturer in a related field
• Record of research and publications in the field of Animal Behavior
• Excellent ability to teach and mentor students
• Strong understanding of the principles of animal behavior and related disciplines
• Experience in securing research funding

 

Benefits

• Retirement plan
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Professional development opportunities
• Generous paid time off
• Academic sabbatical leave

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Behaviorist Professor
• Work Environment: This role is primarily situated within a university campus with occasional fieldwork. Limited travel may be required for academic conferences or research.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Department Head or Dean.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience, and in line with university guidelines.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our faculty. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of publications to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal Behaviorist Professor Do?

An Animal Behaviorist Professor typically works in universities or other academic institutions where they engage in a combination of teaching, research, and fieldwork.

Their primary job is to educate students on the principles and theories of animal behavior.

This includes delivering lectures, creating and grading exams and assignments, and guiding student research projects.

They often mentor students and provide advice on potential career paths in the field of animal behavior.

In addition to teaching, an Animal Behaviorist Professor conducts research to understand different aspects of animal behavior.

This could involve studying animals in their natural habitats, conducting laboratory experiments, or analyzing data from long-term studies.

They may research topics such as social behavior, mating strategies, parental care, foraging behavior, or animal cognition.

Animal Behaviorist Professors often publish their research findings in academic journals and present them at scientific conferences.

They also regularly review the work of their peers and may serve on editorial boards or grant review panels.

Furthermore, they may collaborate with other scientists, conservation organizations, or government agencies to apply their expertise in animal behavior to real-world problems.

For example, they might help design wildlife conservation strategies or develop methods to manage animal populations.

 

Animal Behaviorist Professor Qualifications and Skills

An Animal Behaviorist Professor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the job role, such as:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of animal behavior, psychology, and biology to teach students effectively
• Experience in conducting and publishing original research related to animal behavior
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively explain complex concepts to students and to participate in academic discussions
• Interpersonal skills to foster a positive learning environment and to maintain good relationships with students, faculty, and staff
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to analyze animal behavior and develop hypotheses for research
• Organizational skills to manage multiple classes, prepare lectures, grade assignments, and maintain academic records
• Ability to use instructional technology for teaching and research purposes
• Commitment to ongoing learning and staying updated with the latest research and trends in animal behavior

 

Animal Behaviorist Professor Experience Requirements

Animal Behaviorist Professors typically hold a Doctorate in Psychology, Biology, Ethology, or a closely related field, focusing on animal behavior.

This advanced degree often requires several years of study beyond a Bachelor’s degree, including a significant amount of original research.

Aspiring professors typically gain teaching and research experience during their graduate studies, often serving as Teaching Assistants, Research Assistants, or completing postdoctoral fellowships.

This provides them with the foundational skills in both the academic and scientific elements of the role.

Entry-level professor candidates usually have a few years of teaching and research experience, typically gained during their doctoral studies or postdoctoral fellowships.

They should also have a number of publications in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating their ability to conduct and communicate significant research.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience, often have a solid research profile with a consistent publication record, experience in securing grant funding, and a proven track record in teaching at the undergraduate or graduate level.

Those with 10 or more years of experience are likely to have held senior academic positions such as Department Chair or Dean, and may have significant administrative experience in addition to their teaching and research responsibilities.

These seasoned professionals are often considered for tenure-track positions and may be ready for leadership roles within the university.

 

Animal Behaviorist Professor Education and Training Requirements

The path to becoming an Animal Behaviorist Professor typically begins with a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as zoology, biology, psychology, or animal science.

During undergraduate studies, aspiring animal behaviorist professors are encouraged to take courses in animal behavior, biology, chemistry, mathematics, and statistics.

The next step is to pursue a master’s degree in animal behavior or a related field.

At this level, students will delve deeper into specific areas of animal behavior and often conduct research on particular species or behaviors.

To become a professor, individuals must then obtain a PhD in animal behavior or a closely related field.

This involves conducting extensive research and presenting a dissertation.

Once a PhD is obtained, prospective professors typically spend several years in postdoctoral positions before securing a tenure-track professor position.

This allows for further specialization and research in their chosen area.

Even after securing a professorship, animal behaviorist professors are encouraged to continue their education through professional development opportunities and staying current on research in the field.

In addition, while not mandatory, certification from the Animal Behavior Society can enhance credibility and employability.

This certification requires a combination of education, experience, and contributions to the field of animal behavior.

Potential professors should also have substantial experience with animals, whether through volunteer work, internships, or paid positions.

 

Animal Behaviorist Professor Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Animal Behaviorist Professor is $76,315 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary widely, depending on factors such as academic qualifications, years of experience in the field, the institution of employment, and geographical location.

 

Animal Behaviorist Professor Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Behaviorist Professor need?

An Animal Behaviorist Professor should have a deep understanding of animal biology, psychology, and behavior patterns.

They need to have excellent research skills, as they often conduct studies to analyze animal behavior.

Strong communication and teaching skills are also essential to effectively present complex information to students.

They should also have patience and compassion, given the nature of their work with animals.

 

Do Animal Behaviorist Professors need a degree?

Yes, an Animal Behaviorist Professor requires a significant amount of formal education.

Typically, they need a Ph.D. in a related field such as animal behavior, biology, zoology, or psychology.

Before reaching the professor level, they usually gain experience through research and teaching assistantships during their graduate studies.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Behaviorist Professor’s resume?

Look for a Ph.D. in a related field and a strong background in research.

Evidence of published research in reputable scientific journals is a plus.

Experience teaching courses in animal behavior or related subjects is also important.

Additionally, any field experience, such as wildlife observation or conservation work, can be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Behaviorist Professor?

A good Animal Behaviorist Professor is curious and passionate about understanding and explaining animal behavior.

They should have the ability to inspire and engage students, making complex concepts accessible and interesting.

Excellent communication skills are crucial, as is patience, both in research and in teaching.

They should also be committed to ethical treatment of animals in all their work.

 

What are the daily duties of an Animal Behaviorist Professor?

An Animal Behaviorist Professor spends their day teaching classes, preparing lectures, and grading student work.

They also conduct research, which can include designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and writing up results for publication.

Additionally, they may attend academic conferences to present their research and stay updated on the latest findings in their field.

They may also have administrative duties within their department, such as serving on committees.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve ventured into the wild world of what it truly means to be an Animal Behaviorist Professor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about studying animals.

It’s about understanding the intricate nuances of animal behavior, one observation at a time.

With our comprehensive Animal Behaviorist Professor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why settle for just that?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next tool for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every behavioral observation contributes to a broader understanding of animal life.

Let’s uncover that understanding. Together.

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