Research veterinarians play a key role in scientific studies involving animals. They help maintain animal health and ensure ethical practices during research. If you’re thinking about a career in veterinary science and have an interest in medical research, becoming a research veterinarian could be a great option for you.
Let’s explore who these professionals are, what they do, how you can become one, and what kind of salary and job prospects you can expect.
What is a Research Veterinarian?
A research veterinarian is a doctor who looks after the health and welfare of animals used in scientific research. These animals may be part of studies related to medicine, biology, or disease treatment. Research veterinarians not only treat animals but also work with scientists to design safe and ethical research programs.
What Do Research Veterinarians Do?
Their responsibilities go beyond regular veterinary care. Here’s what they usually do:
- Create health care programs for animals used in experiments.
- Develop preventive health plans to reduce illness and ensure animal well-being.
- Train lab staff on how to handle and care for animals properly.
- Teach safe restraint techniques to protect both animals and handlers during medical exams.
- A guide on medications and dosages to make sure animals are treated safely during research.
- Conduct their own research, sometimes alone or as part of a team.
- Improve lab setups, offering suggestions on facility upgrades to better serve animals.
- Ensure compliance by acting as a bridge between the research facility and legal/regulatory bodies.
How to Become a Research Veterinarian
Becoming a research veterinarian requires education, training, and experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree
Start with a bachelor’s degree in subjects like:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Genetics
- Math
- English or Social Sciences
This will help build a strong foundation for veterinary school.
2. Earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Degree
Next, apply to a veterinary school approved by the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC). Admission usually requires:
- A bachelor’s degree
- Good grades and test scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Animal care experience
The DVM course takes 4 years. The first 3 years focus on subjects like anatomy, pathology, and pharmacology. In the final year, you gain real-world experience by working with animals under supervision.
3. Complete a Residency in Laboratory Animal Medicine
After becoming a vet, you’ll need to specialize. Join a residency program in lab animal medicine, which lasts 2 to 3 years. You’ll learn about:
- Animal surgery and treatments
- Behavior and welfare of lab animals
- How animals are used to model human diseases
- Ethical research practices
During this time, you can choose to focus on certain animals, such as primates or rodents. You’ll also need to write a research thesis, which can later help you earn a Master’s or Ph.D. if you wish.
4. Gain Practical Experience
Before you can get board-certified, you must work at least 6 years in a full-time lab setting with animals. This work should include:
- Treating lab animals
- Managing animal care programs
- Participating in research
- Handling various species
5. Get Certified
To become officially recognized, you need certification from the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM). This requires passing a professional exam. To keep your certification, you’ll need to:
- Renew it every 8 years
- Attend training sessions or educational programs
Note: Even if you didn’t complete a residency, you can still apply for certification if you have strong experience or have published research.
6. Start Applying for Jobs
Once you’re certified, you can begin job hunting. Here are a few ways to find opportunities:
- Check research institutes, universities, or pharmaceutical companies
- Use career websites for scientists and veterinarians
- Connect with people from your veterinary network
Salary and Career Outlook
On average, veterinarians in the U.S. earn around $105,000 per year, but this can vary based on specialization, location, and experience.
- If you have a veterinary technician certification, you could earn up to 15% more.
- If you have lab experience, you could earn about 14% more than vets without it.
Benefits often include:
- Health insurance
- Retirement savings plans (like 401(k))
- Paid leave
- Flexible schedules
Job Outlook:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, veterinary jobs are expected to grow by 16% by 2029. That’s about 14,200 new jobs.
However, jobs specifically needing lab experience have decreased by about 28% since 2018. So while the field is growing, competition in research roles may be tighter.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a research veterinarian is a fulfilling and challenging career path. It combines animal care with scientific research and opens doors to academic, medical, and pharmaceutical industries. If you’re passionate about animals and want to contribute to scientific progress, this role might be the perfect fit.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need a Ph.D. to become a research veterinarian?
No, a Ph.D. is not required, but it can be helpful if you’re interested in academic or advanced research roles.
Q2: Can I work in research without certification?
Some entry-level roles may not need certification, but to grow in the field and take on specialized roles, certification is highly recommended.
Q3: Is the job stressful?
Like any medical or research role, it can be demanding. However, it’s also deeply rewarding for those who are passionate about both animals and science.
Q4: Where do research veterinarians work?
They work in universities, pharmaceutical companies, government labs, and private research centers.
