Agricultural/Horticultural Scientist
Agricultural/horticultural scientists study farm animals, soils, pastures and crops to improve growth, health and quality, and to prevent pests and disease.
This profile is abridged from the CareersNZ website
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Pay per yearGraduate Senior |
Job opportunitiesGood |
What you'll do
Agricultural/horticultural scientists may do some or all of the following:
- Research and advise on animal or plant diseases, pest control, and chemical use
- Develop better methods of managing farms and orchards
- Study the effects of agriculture and horticulture on the environment
- Oversee new projects and field research
- Research and write reports based on field study, and present results
- Share research findings with other scientists, companies and government agencies
- Write applications for research funding and manage budgets
- Train and supervise lab technicians, research teams and field workers
- Make sure all scientific work meets legal requirements.
Entry requirements
To become an agricultural/horticultural scientist, you need a doctorate in science in an area such as:
- Agricultural science
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Agricultural/horticultural scientists in research positions usually apply for a postdoctoral fellowship after completing a doctorate.
You may need to do two or three postdoctoral fellowships (usually lasting two or three years each) before getting a permanent scientist position.
For more information about your study options see: Areas of specialisation: Agriculture, Horticulture and Viticulture
Personal requirements
Agricultural/horticultural scientists need to be:
- Accurate
- Observant
- Organised
- Decisive
- Good at solving problems
- Good at communicating
- Practical
- Able to work well alone and in a team.
What are the chances of getting a job?
Chances of getting a job as an agricultural/horticultural scientist are good due to:
- Good demand for agricultural/horticultural scientists
- Increased funding means more jobs for agricultural/horticultural scientists
- The types of employers are varied
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This information is a guide only. Last updated 6 May 2021.