Animal nutritionist : Career development

After gaining some experience as an animal nutritionist it is possible to become a specialist field consultant, or gain a post in technical sales or marketing in an animal feed production company within the commercial sector.

Nutritionists who have started out with one of the smaller manufacturers can progress by moving to a larger multinational company, where there is likely to be greater scope for promotion and/or for a more varied role. You may also find an opportunity to develop a specialism in nutrition for a particular species, such as poultry or companion animals. Association for Nutrition  accredited MSc courses in animal nutrition and production are available at some universities and may be used alongside specialist work for certain government or feeding industry roles.

The career path/progression of an animal nutritionist within research and academia is likely to be very similar to that of other research scientists. Post PhD careers might include research on an EU-funded project, lecturing in animal nutrition, researching animal management for a feed additive company, and product management for an international breeding firm.

For experienced animal nutritionists, there may be opportunities available for working in community projects in the developing world with organisations such as Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) . Alternatively, if you have built up a strong and loyal client base, you might find work in community development in the UK or as a freelance independent consultant.

There may also be opportunities to move into human nutrition or dietetics. Courses approved by the Dietitian's Board of the Health Professions Council (HPC)  are recommended. See the British Dietetic Association (BDA)  for further details.