What are employers looking for in a vet graduate?

We spoke with Paul Martin, Director R&D, Cravii Australia Pty Limited

Describe the type of vet graduate you look to recruit in your organisation

Show initiative, creative thinking, strong technical understanding of drugs/therapies and diseases, experience in conducting clinical trials, some business acumen, prepared to work as 'project manager' i.e. with computer, phone, etc rather than hands-on animal work.

What are the generic attributes you require in an employee and why are these important in the workplace?

Good interpersonal skills, team and individual worker, intelligent.

What advice would you give to undergraduate veterinary science students who are looking to become more employable by the time they graduate?

Good technical knowledge, farm and clinical experience, a clear idea of their preferred direction. An animal health company is vastly different to being a "doggie" doctor. They need to make this choice.

Do you have any other insights from an employer's perspective?

The main deficiency I have experienced in employing vet graduates is in the area of experimental design and statistics. These are necessary for a career as a technical manager in an animal health company. Although they can be taught on the job, this process is greatly enhanced if the candidate is an analytical and creative thinker.