Physiology is the science that deals with the normal function of organisms
and their parts. An animal physiologist is a person who studies how animals
function. That study can include how certain animals react or interact with
factors such as temperature, air quality, disease, diet and poisons.
Animal physiologists conduct research in a variety of areas. These can
include reproductive physiology, clinical and molecular endocrinology (dealing
with hormones), renal physiology (dealing with the kidneys), toxicology (the
study of poisons) and molecular genetics (the study of hereditary traits).
Once the research is done, the scientist will write about the work. They
will have studies, analyses and overviews published in trade journals. Plus,
many animal physiologists teach at the college level or work for pharmaceutical,
feed or other companies.
Animal physiologists can work in the classroom, in laboratories and even
in the field. That was the case with Jane Goodall, one of the most famous
animal physiologists of all time.
Animal physiologists often work long days. They often conduct, analyse
or write about research after normal working hours.
There are no special physical requirements.