Horse Jobs – Geneticist

A job working with horses that doesn’t offer as much handling of the animal as it does science and research.

This is a position which benefits from the critical thinking, strict attention to detail and a deep understanding of the scientific method.

Geneticists don’t often work face to face with people and spend a lot of their time working alone or in small groups.

An affinity for problem solving and the ability to think and work independently are important elements of a successful horse geneticist. Although the job doesn’t offer a great deal of hands on with horses, it is still one that is best suited to a horse lover.

Job Description

Essentially geneticists study genetic heredity in horses and the transmission of individual characteristics.

Those in the field generally work in one of two areas.

Research

Often employed by a university, medical school or pharmaceutical company. Their research can focus on variations of existing breeds, transmission of inherited disease, color genetics, and genetic segregation.

Responsibilities

• Prepare & conduct laboratory studies
• Prepare reports on their research

Teaching

Teaching genetics requires a great deal more contact with people and the ability to teach and convey a difficult subject.

Responsibilities

• Prepare lesson plans
• Conduct classes & give lectures
• Supervise students in laboratory work
• Serve on Professional committees
• Write articles & prepare papers

Requirements

This is one of the horse jobs that requires a great deal of education and qualifications. A bachelor of science degree in chemistry, physics or mathematics leading up to a master’s or doctorate in genetics.

Resources

A few places to start if you are interested in a career as a horse geneticist

*Links open in a new window
Genetics Society of America
Genetics Society
Center for Genetics & Society

The Right Job For You?

If this isn’t your dream job, there is a long list of different careers that involve horses. Each one requiring a different skill set, schooling requirement and amount of contact with the animals.

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