Applied zoology

The science of applying animal anatomy, physiology, ecology, and behaviour in a particular practical context.

applied animal biology

knowledge

sector-specific

Applied zoology is an essential knowledge of the following occupations:

Zoo curator: Zoo curators are usually the position of middle-management within an institution. Much of their work involves oversight, management and development of the animal collection. Often this is related to animal husbandry and welfare policy, the acquisition and disposition of zoo animals, and development of new exhibits. Zoos normally acquire animals through captive breeding programs. The zoo collection, trade, and transport of the animals is regulated by government agencies as well as guided by zoo membership organisations. Consequently, zoo curators act as a liaison between these agencies and the zoo itself. Additionally, they play an active role in the administration of zoo functions and all kinds of captive breeding programs.
Zoo section leader: Zoo section leaders are responsible for managing and leading a team of zoo keepers. They will carry out daily care and management of animals as well as, in cooperation with colleagues, long term management and organisation of the species and exhibits in their section. They are also accountable for various aspects of staff management for the keepers in their section. Depending on the size of the zoo and animal section they may have additional responsibility for appointing staff and budgeting.   
Aquaculture biologist: Aquaculture biologists apply knowledge gained from research about aquatic animals and plant life and their interactions with each other and the environment, in order to improve aquaculture production, prevent animal health and environmental problems and to provide solutions if necessary.

Zoo educator: Zoo educators teach visitors about the animals living at the zoo/aquarium as well as other species and habitats. They provide information about management of zoos, its collection of animals, and wildlife conservation. Zoo educators can be involved in both formal and informal learning opportunities ranging from production of information signs at enclosures to delivering classroom sessions linked to school or university curricula. Depending on the size of the organisation the education team may be a single person or a large team. Consequently the optional skills reqired are very broad and will vary from organisation to organisation. 

Zoo educators also promote conservation efforts. This can involve work within the zoo but also in the field as part of any zoo outreach project(s).
Aquatic animal health professional: Aquatic animal health professionals diagnose, prevent and treat diseases, injuries and dysfunctions of aquatic animals by implementing appropriate sampling protocols. They supervise the use of medicines, including vaccines, and collect data on fish health, making regular reports to the appropriate personnel. They may provide care to a wide range of aquatic animals or specialise  in the treatment of a particular group or in a particular speciality area. They may provide advice, support and training to farm staff on best practice with regard to the health and welfare of the cultured organisms.
Zookeeper: Zookeepers manage animals that are kept in captivity for conservation, education, research and/or to be displayed to the public. They are usually responsible for the feeding and the daily care and welfare of the animals. As a part of their routine, zookeepers clean the exhibits and report possible health problems. They may also be involved in particular scientific research or public education, such as conducting guided tours and answering questions.
Zoology technician: Zoology technicians provide technical assistance in researching and testing animal species using laboratory equipment. They aid in research concerning animals as well as their environments and ecosystems. They collect and analyse data, compile reports and maintain laboratory stock.

Applied zoology is optional for these occupations. This means knowing this knowledge may be an asset for career advancement if you are in one of these occupations.

Biology technician: Biology technicians provide technical assistance in researching and analysing the relationship between living organisms and their environment. They use laboratory equipment to examine organic substances such as bodily fluids, medicines, plants and food. They collect and analyse data for experiments, compile reports and maintain laboratory stock.
Behavioural scientist: Behavioural scientists research, observe and describe human behaviour in society. They draw conclusions on the motives that stir actions in humans, observe the various circumstances for different behaviours, and describe different personalities. They advise organisations and governmental institutions on this field. They may also analyse the behaviour of animals.
Secondary school teacher: Secondary school teachers provide education to students, commonly children and young adults, in a secondary school setting. They are usually specialist subject teachers, who instruct in their own field of study. They prepare lesson plans and materials, monitor the students’ progress, assist individually when necessary and evaluate their knowledge and performance through assignments, tests and examinations.
Biology lecturer: Biology lecturers are subject professors, teachers, or lecturers who instruct students who have obtained an upper secondary education diploma in their own specialised field of study, biology. They work with their university research assistants and university teaching assistants in the preparation of lectures and of exams, leading laboratory practices, grading papers and exams and leading review and feedback sessions for the students. They also conduct academic research in their field of biology, publish their findings and liaise with other university colleagues.
Nature conservation officer: Nature conservation officers manage and improve the local environment within all the sectors of a local community. They promote awareness of and understanding about the natural environment. This work can be very varied and involve projects related to species, habitats and communities. They educate people and raise overall awareness of environmental issues.
Biology teacher secondary school: Biology teachers at secondary schools provide education to students, commonly children and young adults, in a secondary school setting. They are usually subject teachers, specialised and instructing in their own field of study, biology. They prepare lesson plans and materials, monitor the students’ progress, assist individually when necessary, and evaluate the students’ knowledge and performance on the subject of biology through assignments, tests and examinations.
Taxidermist: Taxidermists mount and reproduce deceased animals or parts of animals such as trofy heads for the purpose of public display and education, such as in a museum or monument, or for other sources of scientific study, or for a private collection.
Biologist: Biologists study living organisms and life in its broader extent in combination with its environment. Through research, they strive to explain the functional mechanisms, interactions, and evolution of organisms.

References

1. Applied zoology – ESCO