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Agricultural Scientist

Agricultural scientists study commercial plants, animals and cultivation techniques to improve the productivity and sustainability of farms and agricultural industries.

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

Agricultural scientists who specialise in the wine industry deal with the research and production of wines and the microbiology and chemistry of winemaking. See the separate entry for Winemaker for more information.

TASKS

Agricultural scientists may perform the following tasks:

collect and analyse data and samples of produce, feed and soil, and study other factors affecting production
advise farmers and farm managers about techniques for improving the production of crops and livestock
advise farmers about issues such as livestock and crop disease, control of pests and weeds, soil improvement, animal husbandry and feeding programmes
study environmental factors affecting commercial crop production, pasture growth and animal breeding
study the effects of cultivation techniques, soils, insects and plant diseases on animal and crop production
develop procedures and techniques for solving agricultural problems and improving the efficiency of production

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

able to analyse and solve problems
interested in science and the environment
able to make accurate observations
good oral and written communication skills
good organisational skills, with supervisory ability
able to work as part of a team

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Agricultural Adviser - assists and advises farmers, agricultural businesses, rural industries and governments in the production, processing and distribution of farm products. They may specialise in areas such as livestock, crops, dairy, fruit and vegetable production, water use, farm economics or land management.

Agricultural Biotechnologist - uses techniques such as genetic engineering to improve the quality and diversity of plant and animal products.

Agricultural Entomologist - investigates the causes of insect outbreaks and researches methods to control them through integrated pest management, biological control and chemical processes.

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 - is an expert in agricultural practices, with the aim to increase crop yield and farming profits. This may include specialist positions in research, extension and advice, sales, crop nutrition, soils or farming sustainability.

Animal Scientist - conducts experiments in controlled breeding or embryo manipulation. They investigate the nutritional value of different feeds and the environmental conditions necessary to improve the quality of animal produce.

Crop Physiologist - studies the mechanisms of normal plant growth and the effects of environmental conditions and chemicals upon them.

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

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an agricultural scientist you usually have to complete a degree in agricultural science, or a science degree with a major in agriculture-related studies. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, biology, chemistry, mathematics and physics are normally required.

A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Graduates of agricultural science or a related discipline may apply to become members of Ag Institute Australia.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Employers include state, territory and federal government departments and the private sector. Careers are usually in research, advisory roles, teaching, management, administration, marketing and media. Agricultural scientists may work in horticulture and with flower growers, nursery operators and commercial firms trading in horticultural products such as frozen foods, seeds and fertilisers. They may also work in the field of landscape design and in the mining industry to assist with land regeneration.

Although Employment Opportunities exist overseas, positions usually require postgraduate qualifications or work experience.