As stewards of sustainable growth and guardians of our planet’s natural resources, Agricultural Scientists incorporate complex technology into age-old practices to devise eco-friendly solutions to the ongoing global hunger and malnutrition crises. Continue Reading
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What are the typical responsibilities of an Agricultural Scientist?
An Agricultural Scientist would typically need to:
The workplace of an Agricultural Scientist can vary based on their location and professional role. It may range from offices, laboratories, agricultural experiment stations, greenhouses, and controlled-environment facilities to natural environments where one can undertake fieldwork. Field work may entail inclement weather, noise, and dust.
One may work alone or as part of a team of scientists, farmers, and other stakeholders in the agricultural industry. Conferences, field visits, and research may require extensive travel.
Full-time Agricultural Scientists typically work 40-45/week, depending on their location and organisational policies. Planting and harvesting seasons may require overtime, as do project deadlines. Fieldwork and lab experiments may warrant early morning and weekend tasks.
Research suggests that flexible hours and generous telework policies appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules per the job demands.
Finding a new job might seem challenging. Agricultural Scientists can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.
Agricultural Scientists are generally employed by:
Professional associations and organisations, such as the Association for International Agricultural and Extension Education (AIAEE), are crucial for Agricultural Scientists interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.
Professional associations provide members with continuing education, networking opportunities, and mentorship services. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.
If the academic program that a potential Agricultural Scientist takes up includes a period of supervised experiences, such as an internship, the aspirant will benefit from tasks outside the classroom that align perfectly with lessons inside it.
In addition, one may hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.
Internships, cooperative programmes, short-term paid/voluntary work, and entry-level roles in farms, research institutions, agricultural companies, and government agencies may offer a taste of the career, help build valuable contacts, and improve one’s prospects of getting a permanent job.
Some Agricultural Scientists begin their career as research assistants in academic or industrial research projects providing unparalleled exposure to laboratory and field experience in conducting experiments, collecting samples, and observing agricultural processes to understand better crop production, soil management, and environmental interactions.
Since using specialised equipment and analysing data to research soil science, genetics, plant pathology, and other agricultural disciplines is a major part of an Agricultural Scientist’s work, any experience that helps develop such skills can be enriching.
Participate in global research projects where exposure to diverse agricultural practices and their attendant challenges can expand your knowledge and broaden your perspective.
Employment opportunities in agribusinesses, agricultural equipment manufacturers, and food processing companies may provide insights into the practical application of agricultural research and scientific innovation.
The experience may also help determine whether the public, private or voluntary sector is best suited to realise one’s ambitions. Your educational provider’s career service department can provide information about viable work placement, internship and voluntary work opportunities in diverse sectors.
Even while in high school, you can check with a teacher or counsellor about relevant work-based learning opportunities available in your school or community that can help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Consider joining agricultural clubs or volunteering on a farm, community garden, or agricultural project so you can have fun while learning about yourself and be directed toward a future career.
Participate in science fairs to learn about agricultural science and sustainable farming while showcasing your commitment to the field. Present your findings in school to develop and refine your communication and public speaking skills.
Attend local agricultural events, workshops, and seminars to connect with and solicit mentorship of experts. Contact local agricultural businesses for internship or job shadowing opportunities.
Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experienced Agricultural Scientists or researchers to get a handle on specific areas within the field that resonate with your ideals and ambitions.
Subscribe to agricultural publications, follow reputable websites, and join online forums or communities related to agriculture and farming to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.
Agricultural Scientists require a judicious combination of academic and practical knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices to carry out their duties properly.
An accredited bachelor’s degree in agriculture, biology, animal science, agricultural biotechnology, agricultural engineering, chemistry, soil science, or animal nutrition may provide the necessary headstart to a career in agricultural science, especially in the private sector.
However, based on the specific work environment, career path or specialisation, some employers may require applicants for the position of Agricultural Scientist to hold a master’s degree or PhD in the fields mentioned earlier. Students must complete research work and give a formal presentation on a vital issue in agricultural science to obtain either of the degrees.
University coursework may ideally include lectures and lab work on production agriculture, animal science, agricultural economics, nutrition, horticulture, chemistry, and statistics.
Supplementing one’s biology, chemistry, genetics, and agriculture education with a specialised degree in crop science, animal science, soil science, plant science, crop technology, or food technology may increase one’s chances of landing niche roles within agricultural science.
Agricultural science students can tailor their education to accommodate attractive career options ranging from environmental conservation and research to livestock management and food science.
A career in farm management may require a focus on agribusiness and finance, while a plant scientist may devote their energy to soil science and plant breeding. Advanced courses in genetics coupled with research on animal offspring can further your ambition to be an animal scientist.
Recommended high school courses include biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, calculus, economics, environmental science, computer science, and agriculture/horticulture (if available). English and speech classes will help you develop your research, writing, and oral communication skills.
Remember that completing a particular academic course does not guarantee entry into the profession. Be that as it may, professional qualifications and transferable skills may open up more than one door.
Do your homework and look into all available options for education and employment before enrolling in a specific programme. Reliable sources that help you make an educated decision include associations and employers in your field.
Certification demonstrates an Agricultural Scientist’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.
Although it is not mandatory for entry-level positions, voluntary certification in agricultural research, agronomy, crop advisory, soil science, soil classification, and sustainability from nationally recognised bodies will give your professional career the required impetus.
Additional certifications in food technology, animal science, organic farming and production, first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and Remote Sensing technologies from an objective and reputed organisation also help you stand out in a competitive job market. The requirements may vary according to the specialisation chosen.
Depending on their location and nature of work, Agricultural Scientists may require a licence in soil science and pesticide/chemical application. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees, an examination, and relevant education and experience.
A driving licence may also help, given the significant volume of fieldwork intrinsic to some roles.
Agricultural Scientists may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.
Excellent performance, considerable experience in basic research or product development, and the acquisition of a master’s or doctoral degree drive the career progression of Agricultural Scientists who may aspire to become Senior Research Scientists, Project Managers, or Business Development Executives before being promoted as Principal Scientists, Senior Project Managers, or Area Sales Manager.
One could specialise in biotechnology, farm management, agribusiness, plant/soil science, and plant breeding to pursue concentrated career paths and quick promotions. Lateral career progression may include becoming an Agricultural Technician or Agricultural Inspector/Consultant.
Your work may take you to different parts of the world where farming and growing methods require research and development (R&D); however, it would be wise to note the limited scope for career advancement within research.
Academically-oriented Agricultural Scientists may opt for academic roles in universities. Those keen on laboratory work in research facilities can be promoted to Principal Scientist and Senior Project Manager.
Agricultural Scientists with an entrepreneurial inclination may consider alternative career paths in administration, business development, finance, and sales. At the same time, those who desire to offer legal guidance on land and pesticide use and crop, water, labour, and environmental concerns may become Agricultural Lawyers.
The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation, and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.
Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and interesting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable, transferable skills along the way.
Agricultural Scientists with a solid work ethic, commitment to agriculture, comprehensive knowledge of scientific research, and the ability to implement their findings by cultivating synergistic relationships with farmers and industry stakeholders have the best job prospects.
Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Agricultural Scientist build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity,
formal education, or self-directed learning.
On-the-job training is usually provided to rookie scientists to familiarise them with the company’s policies, procedures, practices, and the programs/software they use.
Incumbents may pursue advanced courses and degrees to acquire specialised knowledge in niche areas of agricultural science. In addition, familiarity with data analysis and statistical software can prove critical in dealing with large datasets from field trials and experiments.
Besides easing one’s entry into academia or research, a master’s degree or PhD in agricultural biochemistry, agricultural biotechnology, soil science, agricultural microbiology, agricultural entomology, agricultural economics, floriculture, or horticulture may help improve one’s earning potential and career advancement.
Agricultural Scientists keen on teaching may find it advantageous to teach agricultural courses or work in extension services that educate farmers and the public about effective agricultural practices.
Successful research teams and large-scale projects require leadership and project management skills. Publication of research papers in scientific journals and presentation of research findings at conferences to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and contribute to your professional community.
Stay up-to-date with industry developments in farming, agriculture, and environmental science to maintain a competitive edge in the workplace.
In addition to offering the opportunity to continually upskill, regardless of one’s age, job, or level of knowledge, CPD also enables the periodic renewal of desirable certifications, which increase your chances of advancement and becoming an independent consultant.
Agricultural Scientists can expect support and additional training from the academic institution or from Vitae, a non-profit global leader with over 50 years of experience in enhancing the skills of researchers.
In partnership with governments, funders of research, professional bodies, trusts & foundations, universities, and research institutes, Vitae offers training, resources, events, consultancy, and membership.
All In A Day’s Work
Besides simple tools such as test tubes, sample jars and microscopes, Agricultural Scientists depend on state-of-the-art machinery to collect and preserve field samples and to prepare and analyse them in the laboratory. They may need to operate farm equipment when conducting field experiments. Regular exposure to chemicals requires protective gloves, safety glasses, and lab coats.
The Agronomic Trio
Subsistence agriculture can be classified into three main categories. Intensive subsistence follows traditional farming practices; shifting cultivation involves the periodic clearing of forests to establish new farm plots; pastoral nomadism comprises communities that travel with their herds of animals.
Agricultural Scientist vs Horticultural Scientist
Agricultural Scientists typically focus on a sub-domain such as soil, crops, animals, or farm produce to develop, test and implement improved or new ways of raising animals and growing crops. Agriculture emphasises large-scale monoculture for higher outputs.
Horticultural Scientists study plants used in gardening, landscaping, and medicines to identify, classify and grow vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants. They focus on small-scale crop production while leaning towards polyculture.
Horticulture and agriculture differ mainly in production scale, with horticulture focusing on small-scale crop production, while agriculture emphasises large-scale production for higher outputs. Agriculture often involves monoculture, while horticulture leans towards polyculture.
Horticulture is vital to agriculture as it improves plant quality and yield, enhancing agricultural practices' effectiveness and sustainability. By making plants more nutritious and disease-resistant, horticulture complements agriculture's efforts.
Agricultural Scientist vs Agronomist
Agricultural Scientists are often synonymously known as agronomists. While there may be differences in specific roles and responsibilities, they have considerably similar goals when working in agriculture.
Agricultural Scientists are more research-oriented with a broader scope that expands beyond plant and soil study. Agronomists specialise in agronomy, focusing on improving agricultural practices, soil management, and crop production to enhance sustainability and productivity in agriculture. They do this through scientific and technological methods to understand the production and usage of plants for food, fibre, fuel, and land reclamation.
Unlike Agricultural Scientists, agronomists may or may not work with research institutions, government agencies, universities, or private companies.
Current Scenario
The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as the time of year, location, employment turnover, occupational growth, size of the occupation, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.
As an industry that humanity owes its existence to, agricultural science offers diverse job opportunities in R&D on plant breeding, plant genetics, horticulture, soil science irrigation, minimisation of pest and animal impact, food production and preservation, and mitigation of adverse environmental effects.
Lucrative career opportunities are ramping up in smart farming, involving agricultural IT services, incorporating the latest communication technologies, and using artificial intelligence in agricultural production.
The growing governmental interest in agriculture, the constant unfolding of new areas of research and development, and a shortage of talent in the field worldwide also significantly impact future growth prospects in agriculture and allied industries.
Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment
Freelancing Agricultural Scientists have more flexible work schedules and locations. They fully own the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.
On the other hand, full-time Agricultural Scientists have company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.
When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.
Agriculture is vital for the sustenance of life as we know it; Agricultural Scientists play a critical role in shaping our dreams of a future where there is ample food to meet the needs of all earthly inhabitants.
“Finding a remedy will require changes extending far beyond the soil. It will involve changing how we farm and potentially the whole nature of the agrochemical industry. It could also change the way we feed people all around the world.”
- Denisa Ogoyi, Environmental Expert
By 2025, farmers must boost food production by 70% to meet the demands of a growing world population and avert food shortages and the risks of global hunger.
What do Agricultural Scientists do?
An Agricultural Scientist would typically need to:
Accredited
$81,350
