Agricultural Scientist
Agricultural scientists play a crucial role in the study and improvement of agricultural practices, focusing on crops, farm animals, and the overall sustainability of agricultural systems. Their work involves maximizing crop yields, minimizing pest infestations, and ensuring the efficient use of natural resources such as soil and water. Many agricultural scientists conduct research in various environments, including offices, laboratories, and outdoor farms, collaborating with farmers, government agencies, and private businesses. They also assess the impact of agriculture on the environment and strive to maintain a balance between productivity and sustainability.
To enter this field, a bachelor's degree in agricultural sciences or a related discipline is typically required, with advanced positions often necessitating a master's or doctoral degree. Agricultural scientists engage in a variety of tasks, including collecting samples, diagnosing crop and animal health issues, and providing technical guidance to stakeholders. Their expertise not only aims to enhance agricultural productivity but also focuses on protecting the environment and ensuring food safety. Overall, agricultural scientists are essential for the advancement of sustainable farming practices and the ongoing development of agricultural technology.
Agricultural Scientist
Snapshot
- Career Cluster(s): Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources, Manufacturing, Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
- Interests: Agricultural Science, Agronomy, Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Research, Food Science
- Earnings (Yearly Median): $76,400 per year $36.73 per hour
- Employment & Outlook: 8% (Faster than average)
- Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
- Related Work Experience None
- On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Agricultural scientists study crops, farm animals, and other elements of agriculture to ensure the highest possible degree of productivity and safety. They research ways to maximize crop yields, reduce pest infestations and weed growth, and use resources such as soil and water in an efficient manner. Many of these scientists also study the impacts of agriculture on the natural environment and work towards a better balance between environmental sustainability and production. Many agricultural scientists are involved in the research and development activities of private agricultural businesses, while others provide consulting services, manage farms, conduct research at educational institutions, or work for government agencies.
Work Environment. Agricultural scientists spend a great deal of time in office environments such as in private consulting firms, business corporations, agricultural research stations, or government agencies. Others work in laboratory environments, conducting experiments on samples and analyzing data. Agricultural scientists also spend a significant amount of time outdoors to conduct experiments, take samples, measure volumes, and perform other research activities. Some agricultural scientists visit dairies or feed lots when examining livestock. When conducting research, agricultural scientists may travel into rural farm areas and work in many different types of weather conditions.
Occupation Interest. Agricultural scientists fulfill a very important role because they help keep agricultural products safe, processing operations efficient, and output at maximum sustainable levels. They are also invaluable to the protection of the environment, working to ensure that farms do not pollute the soil or nearby water resources. Agricultural scientists should enjoy research and spending time outdoors and around animals. They should find satisfaction in using their knowledge and skills to help people throughout the world.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. The daily responsibilities and duties of agricultural scientists vary significantly based on their area of expertise and employer. For example, soil scientists primarily analyze the ground in which crops are grown, while biotechnology specialists study ways to increase crop yields. Government agencies may focus on sustainable development or environmental protection, while private companies tend to concentrate on maximizing profit yields from agricultural business.
In general, agricultural scientists work with commercial agricultural firms, government agencies, and farmers, performing in-depth research, collecting samples, and providing technical data and advice for clients. They offer public policy guidance for political leaders, sharing information on ways to safeguard the environment, and ensure long-term soil fertility and water-use sustainability. Agricultural scientists collect water, soil, plant, and animal samples, diagnose diseases and nutrient problems among animals and crops, assess the severity of insect infestations, track breeding trends, monitor weed growth, and examine the effectiveness of new farming techniques and technologies. Many agricultural scientists conduct controlled experiments in laboratories, trying to generate increased crop growth and to lessen the environmental impact of agricultural production.
Senior agricultural scientists train technicians, research assistants, and other members of their teams. They also perform important administrative tasks, such as completing grant applications and editing research papers.
Animal Scientists (040.061-014). Animal Scientists conduct research on the selection, breeding, feeding, management and health of domestic farm animals.
Dairy Scientists (040.061-018). Dairy Scientists, along with Poultry Scientists (040.061-042), conduct research on the selection, breeding, feeding and management of dairy cattle and poultry.
Food Technologists (041.081-010). Food Technologists study the chemical, physical and biological nature of food to learn how to safely process, preserve, package, distribute and store it.
Horticulturists (040.061-038). Horticulturists work with fruit, vegetable, greenhouse and nursery crops and ornamental plants. They seek improved quality, yield and methods to resist crop diseases.
Animal Breeders (041.061-014). Animal Breeders, along with Plant Breeders (041.061-082), breed animals and plants to develop and improve their potential.
Entomologists ((041.061-046). Entomologists study insects and their relationship to plant and animal life.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Agricultural scientists spend much of their time working in well-organized office environments, but they also must work outdoors on a regular basis at animal or crop farms.
Human Environment. Depending on their areas of specialty, agricultural scientists interact and collaborate with a wide range of individuals, including government officials, agricultural technicians, farmers, environmental scientists, business executives, and food scientists.
Technological Environment. Agricultural scientists work with a wide array of technologies in the field, in the laboratory, and at the office. They use spectrometers and photometers to break down soil and other natural agricultural materials. Soil scoops, water containers, and other sampling equipment are frequently used as well. In the office, agricultural scientists use a wide range of databases, scientific and analytical software systems, and general business software, which is used to prepare technical reports and public policy proposals.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students should study biology, physics, chemistry, and other natural sciences. Algebra and applied mathematics are extremely useful as well. High school students should take computer science courses and hone their writing and public speaking skills through English and communications classes. Finally, courses that help students understand agricultural systems, such as farm equipment and seeding practices, are extremely important. Part-time, seasonal, and internship employment opportunities doing farm work are excellent ways to become familiar with this type of work. Interested high school students may also want to pursue supplemental educational programs or opportunities at their state’s land-grant colleges.
Postsecondary. Agricultural scientists who plan to work in product development need at least a bachelor’s degree in agricultural sciences and similar fields. Those who wish to secure research or teaching positions must have a master’s degree or a doctorate. They may also possess a master’s degree or doctorate in biology, physics, engineering, or another field relevant to their area of expertise.
Related Occupations
− Botanist
− Farm & Home Management Advisor
− Forester & Conservation Scientist
Bibliography
"Agricultural and Food Scientists." Occupational Outlook Handbook, US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/agricultural-and-food-scientists.htm. Accessed 17 Aug. 2024.
"What Is a Food Scientist? A Day in the Life at Cargill." Cargill, 1 Feb. 2024, www.cargill.com/story/what-is-a-food-scientist. Accessed 25 Aug. 2024.