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Botanist
Botany is the scientific study of plants.
Plants have played an important part in human life for thousands of years. They provide beauty as well as materials for our basic needs - including food, medicine and clothing.
One of the best things about plant science is the number of different specialties and career opportunities to choose. This diversity allows people with different backgrounds, aptitudes and interests to find satisfying careers in plant biology. There are few things more fulfilling than to work in a job that is both fun to do and a benefit to others.
As a Botanist your work may take you to foreign and exotic lands. It may allow you to live and work in the great outdoors.
Among the careers available to a person who enjoys the outdoors are positions as an ecologist, taxonomist, conservationist, forester, or plant explorer.
A person with a mathematical background might find biophysics, developmental botany, genetics, modeling, or systems ecology to be exciting fields.
Someone with an interest in chemistry might become a plant physiologist, plant biochemist, molecular biologist, or chemotaxonomist. Many people do not realize that most of the basic biological processes are the same in both plants and animals. Plants, however, are easier to grow and manipulate.
Plant structure may appeal to a person who enjoys microscopy and the beauty of intricate form and design. Persons fascinated with microscopic organisms often choose microbiology, phycology or mycology.
On a larger scale, ornamental horticulture and landscape design requires artistic use of plant form and color.
A person concerned about the world food supply might study plant pathology (diseases) or plant breeding. Some examples are: Agronomy (field crops), Horticulture (ornamentals, fruits and vegetables), Microbiology (microbes such as bacteria and fungi) and Plant Pathology (diseases of plants).
Plant biologists who enjoy working with people have a wide range of opportunities in teaching and public service.
Research:
Today our world faces new and complex problems that were never dreamed of a century ago. For instance, the ever-increasing human population has a growing need for food and other plant-related products. These demands are linked to enormous environmental problems. While air and water pollution increases, biological diversity is steadily being reduced.
The results of botanical research increase and improve our supply of medicines, foods, fibers, building materials, and other plant products. Conservationists use botanical knowledge to help manage parks, forests, range lands, and wilderness areas. Public health and environmental protection professionals depend on their understanding of plant science to help solve pollution problems.
Information source: http://www.botany.org/bsa/careers
Useful Information
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Career Snapshot Botanist |
In Demand
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Qualification Required |
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Work Outdoors |
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Maths Required |
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Science Required |
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This is a general guide - it is important to check admission requirements with the various training institutions first because entry requirements may vary.
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