Agricultural Scientist
Agricultural scientists study commercial plants, animals
and cultivation techniques to improve the productivity and
sustainability of farms and agricultural industries.
An agricultural scientist may perform the following tasks:
- act as a consultant in the application of science to the
practice of agriculture
- carry out research programs on the breeding, nutrition
and disease resistance of plants and animals
- provide technical information to farmers and commercial
firms trading in agricultural commodities and produce
- study the effects of agriculture on the environment by
collecting and analysing samples of soil, ground water and
plants
- carry out experimental programs in controlled
environments to develop better environmental management
methods
- assist farmers in the planning and monitoring of
agricultural activities, and in the diagnosis and treatment
of problems (e.g. nutrient disorders in plants and
livestock; weed and plant disease management)
- train and coordinate the work of technicians and field
workers
- at senior levels, supervise and coordinate research
teams, prepare funding applications and communicate the
results of research
- prepare policy advice and assist in putting government
policy into practice.
An agricultural scientist may specialise as an:
Agricultural Adviser who assists and advises
farmers, agricultural businesses, rural industries and
government in the production, processing and distribution of
farm products. They may specialise in areas such as beef and
sheep, crop, dairy, fruit production, water use, farm
economics or land management.
Agricultural Biotechnologist who uses techniques
such as genetic engineering to improve the quality and
diversity of plant and animal products.
Agricultural Entomologist who investigates the
causes of insect outbreaks and researches methods to control
them through integrated pest management, biological control
and chemical means.
Agricultural Microbiologist who is involved in the
identification and control of disease organisms, often working
in specialised areas such as food technology and environmental
management.
Agronomist who deals with soil management and
methods of improving growth and quality in a wide range of
crops.
Animal Scientist who conducts experiments in
controlled breeding or in embryo manipulation. They
investigate the nutritional values of different feeds and the
environmental conditions necessary to improve productivity and
quality of animal produce.
Crop Physiologist who studies the mechanisms of
normal plant growth and the effects of environmental
conditions and chemicals upon them.
Horticultural Scientist who applies scientific
knowledge to the cultivation and propagation of plants such as
fruit, vegetables, berries, flowers, trees, shrubs and crops.
They may also work in landscape design to create parks and
gardens, with concern for the conservation and preservation of
natural resources.
Plant Pathologist who studies the effects of
diseases harmful to crop growth and assists in developing
methods to control them.
Soil Scientist who studies the biology, chemistry,
physics and hydrology of soil systems, and conducts research
and advises on matters relating to conservation and
management.
Agricultural scientists who specialise as winemakers deal
with research and production of vines and the microbiology and
chemistry of winemaking. See the separate entry for Winemaker
for more information.
Agricultural scientists may work in laboratories, offices,
in the field or in a combination of these. Some work alone but
most work as a member of a team. This can be alongside other
scientists and farmers and often with other people involved in
providing services to the agricultural industry.
Required Skills - Agricultural Scientist
- good at science and able to analyse and solve problems
- enjoy agriculture and/or the environment
- able to make accurate observations
- good oral and written communication skills
- well organised with supervisory ability
- able to work as part of a team
Similar Jobs - Agricultural Scientist
Find work - Agricultural Scientist
Job Search - Agricultural Scientist
|
