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Animal Physiologist

Animal physiologists carry out research on how human or animal bodies work. They study the blood, breathing, circulation, digestion, excretion, hormone and skeletal muscle systems, body organs, and brain.

Tasks & duties

Animal physiologists may do some or all of the following:

conduct experiments on how animal and human cells, tissues and organs work
study the body's reactions to factors such as high altitude, diving, exercise and disease
measure changes in body functions such as breathing rates and blood pressure
measure the effects of nerve signals and hormones on the body
use measurements to test theories
write reports on the results of the studies being conducted
present talks at conferences
teach physiology
work with and study animals, including marine and freshwater species
work with doctors or vets to find cures for diseases
work with pharmaceutical companies to develop new drugs
test new drugs to assess their effectiveness and suitability for use in New Zealand

Skills & knowledge

Animal physiologists need to have:

knowledge of human and animal cells, tissues and organs
knowledge of the nerves, hormones and chemical processes that occur within the body
understanding of various drugs and their effects on the body
understanding of the functions of the brain
skill in analysing and interpreting research results and other information
practical skills for performing experiments and operating scientific equipment
an eye for detail in carrying out and analysing the results of their work
planning and organisational skills
writing skills, for writing reports and articles for publications
maths and computer skills
public speaking skills, and the ability to give presentations

Entry requirements

To become an animal physiologist you need to have a Bachelor of Science in physiology, biochemistry or molecular biology.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter tertiary training. However, an A or B Bursary or NCEA equivalent is preferred. Useful subjects include English, biology, chemistry, maths and physics.