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Agricultural/Horticultural Scientist

Agricultural/horticultural scientists study farm animals, soils, pastures and crops to improve their yield, health and quality, and to prevent pests and disease.

Tasks & duties

Agricultural/horticultural scientists may do some or all of the following:

find ways to improve the quality and value of animal or crop production
develop farming methods to protect animal welfare and the environment
develop vaccines and other products to improve animal health and productivity
conduct experiments to find ways to control pests and diseases
analyse the results of experiments
supervise technical and research staff
advise farmers, vets, and horticultural and agricultural companies
read research papers by other scientists
write about their work for scientific and farming magazines
present reports at conferences
maintain contact with other scientists nationally and internationally
write applications for funding grants for agricultural/horticultural research
manage research budgets

Specialisations

Scientists working in agriculture and horticulture may specialise in various branches of science. These include:

agronomy and crop science
farm systems such as irrigation
microbiology
plant and animal physiology
genetics
animal nutrition
animal reproduction

Skills & knowledge

Agricultural/horticultural scientists need to have:

knowledge of crops, pastures and soil types
knowledge of farm animals
understanding of physiology and biology
knowledge of agricultural and horticultural chemicals, pests and diseases
research skills
skill in analysing and interpreting research results and other information
practical skills for performing experiments and operating scientific equipment
problem-solving skills
planning and organisational skills
communication skills
writing skills, for writing reports and for publications
maths and computer skills
public speaking skills and the ability to give presentations

Entry requirements

To become an agricultural/horticultural scientist you need a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in science, such as a general BSc or Bachelor of Agricultural Science (BAgriScience). However, a Master's degree or PhD is often preferred by employers.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Year 12 Certificate of Education or Higher School Certificate equivalent agriculture, biology, chemistry, maths, computer studies and English is preferred.

Training on the job

Many skills are gained on the job. Agricultural and horticultural companies often send scientists on training courses to learn the latest scientific techniques.

Agricultural/horticultural scientists may also attend computer courses, safety courses including handling radioactive materials, and courses for innovative thinking and personal development.