Digital graphic illustration of a scientist putting droplets into a beaker containing a plant. There are multiple plants in various sized beakers and posters behind that show generic diagrams of a tree branch and a beetle.

Plant Scientist

Job Sector: Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Potential Salary (USD):

Low End: $35,000.00 /yr
Avg/Med: $70,000.00 /yr
High End: $120,000.00 /yr

Education Required:

  • Bachelor of Science in Plant Sciences, or
  • Bachelor of Science in Agronomy

Job Outlook:

The demand for plant scientists is expected to grow as the need for sustainable agriculture and food security increases. Advances in biotechnology and precision agriculture also create new opportunities in this field.

Career Profile Overview:

Plant Scientists, also known as agronomists or botanists, study plants to improve agricultural practices, enhance crop yields, and ensure food security. They conduct research to understand plant biology, genetics, and ecology, and apply this knowledge to solve challenges related to agriculture, sustainability, and environmental conservation.

Environmental scientist looking at a microscope in front of rows of individually potted plants.

Research and Development:

  • Conduct experiments to study plant growth, reproduction, and resistance to diseases and pests.
  • Develop new plant varieties that are more productive, resilient, and sustainable.

Soil and Crop Management:

  • Analyze soil composition and health, and recommend practices to improve soil fertility and crop production.
  • Work on sustainable farming techniques that reduce environmental impact.

Genetic Improvement:

  • Use plant breeding and biotechnology to develop crops with desirable traits, such as drought tolerance, pest resistance, and improved nutritional content.

Environmental Impact Studies:

  • Study the effects of agricultural practices on the environment, including soil degradation, water use, and biodiversity.
  • Develop strategies to minimize negative impacts and promote sustainable agriculture.

Education and Outreach:

  • Provide guidance to farmers, agricultural businesses, and government agencies on best practices for crop production and sustainable farming.
  • Engage in public education to raise awareness about the importance of plant science in food security and environmental conservation.

Policy and Advocacy:

  • Advise policymakers on agricultural and environmental policies, helping to shape regulations that support sustainable farming and food production.

Educational Path:

  • High School: Basic understanding of science, biology, chemistry, and mathematics is important for this role.
  • Postsecondary: Bachelor’s Degree in Plant Science, Agronomy, Botany, or a Related Field
  • Advanced Degrees: Master’s or Ph.D. in Plant Science or a Related Field

Certifications:

  • Certified Crop Adviser (CCA)
  1. Entry-Level:
    • Research Assistant: $35,000 – $50,000 annually (USD)
    • Agricultural Technician: $40,000 – $55,000 annually (USD)
    • Extension Agent: $38,000 – $52,000 annually (USD)
  2. Mid-Level:
    • Plant Scientist: $55,000 – $75,000 annually (USD)
    • Crop Consultant: $60,000 – $80,000 annually (USD)
    • Agronomist: $65,000 – $85,000 annually (USD)
  3. Senior-Level:
    • Senior Plant Scientist: $75,000 – $100,000 annually (USD)
    • Director of Research and Development: $85,000 – $120,000 annually (USD)
    • University Professor: $70,000 – $100,000 annually (USD)

(Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and specific employer)

  • Strong understanding of plant biology, genetics, ecology, and agricultural science. Familiarity with research methods and data analysis.
  • Ability to identify challenges in agriculture, such as crop diseases or soil degradation, and develop innovative solutions.
  • Proficient in analyzing data from experiments, field studies, and laboratory work to draw meaningful conclusions.
  • Effective at conveying complex scientific information to diverse audiences, including farmers, policymakers, and the public.
  • Careful in conducting experiments, collecting data, and documenting research findings to ensure accuracy and reliability.
  • Ability to work with other scientists, agricultural professionals, and stakeholders to achieve common goals in research and development.

United States:

  1. University of California, Davis
  2. Cornell University
  3. University of Florida
    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Agronomy
    • Website: UF Agronomy

Canada:

  1. University of Guelph
  2. University of Saskatchewan
  3. University of British Columbia
    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology, Plant and Soil Science
    • Website: UBC Applied Biology

Joanne Chory

Joanne Chory an older lady with a grey perm stands for a portrait surrounded by plants in a science lab.
Joanne Chory an older lady with a grey perm and bright smile sits between rows of tabletop benches with assorted plants.

Position: Plant Biologist, Director of the Plant Biology Laboratory at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Contribution: Dr. Joanne Chory is a pioneering plant biologist whose research focuses on how plants adapt to environmental stress. She leads the Harnessing Plants Initiative at the Salk Institute, which aims to develop plants that can store more carbon dioxide in their roots, thereby helping to mitigate climate change.

Impact: Chory’s work has the potential to revolutionize how we combat climate change by using plants as natural carbon sinks. Her research could lead to the development of crops that contribute to carbon sequestration, playing a critical role in reducing atmospheric CO2 levels.

Source: Salk Institute

Closeup of african biologist woman looking into camera while working in biological agronomy laboratory. Specialists team researching genetic mutation developing medical scientific GMO dna test.

Resources and Further Reading: