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Agricultural Scientist

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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 needs 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, groundwater 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.

Specialisations:

An agricultural scientist may specialise.

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 Adviser

An agricultural adviser 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

An agricultural biotechnologist uses techniques such as genetic engineering to improve the quality and diversity of plant and animal products.

Agricultural Entomologist

An agricultural entomologist investigates the causes of insect outbreaks and researches methods to control them through integrated pest management, biological control and chemical means.

Agricultural Microbiologist

An agricultural microbiologist is involved in the identification and control of disease organisms, often working in specialised areas such as food technology and environmental management.

Agronomist

An agronomist deals with soil management and methods of improving growth and quality in a wide range of crops.

Animal Scientist

An animal scientist 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

A crop physiologist studies the mechanisms of normal plant growth and the effects of environmental conditions and chemicals upon them.

Horticultural Scientist

A horticultural scientist 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.

Soil Scientist

A soil scientist studies the biology, chemistry, physics and hydrology of soil systems, and conducts research and advises on matters relating to conservation and management.

Agricultural scientists may work in laboratories, offices, in the field or in a combination of these. Some work alone but most work as members of a team. This can be alongside other scientists and farmers and often with other people involved in providing services to the agricultural industry.

Personal Requirements:

  • good at science
  • 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.

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