Agricultural Scientists

Agricultural scientists study commercial plants, animals and cultivation

techniques to improve the productivity and sustainability of farms and agricultural
industries.
Agricultural scientists may perform the following tasks:
collect and analyze 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 programs
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.
Specializations:
Agricultural scientists who specialize in the wine industry deal with the research
and production of wines and the microbiology and chemistry of winemaking.
Agricultural Adviser
An agricultural adviser assists and advises farmers, agricultural businesses, rural
industries and governments in the production, processing and distribution of farm
products. They may specialize in areas such as livestock, crops, dairy, fruit production,
water use, farm economics or land management.
Agricultural Biotechnologist
An agricultural biotechnologist uses techniques such as genetic engineering to
improve the quality and diversity of plant and animal products.
Agricultural Entomologist
An 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
An agricultural microbiologist is involved in the identification and control of
disease organisms, often working in specialized areas such as food technology and
environmental management.
Agronomist
An 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
An 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
A crop physiologist studies the mechanisms of normal plant growth and the
effects of environmental conditions and chemicals upon them.
Horticultural Scientist
A 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
A soil scientist studies the biology, chemistry, physics and hydrology of soil
systems, and conducts research and advises on matters relating to conservation and
management.
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.