Soil and Plant Scientists
Also known as: Agricultural Specialist, Agriculturist, Agronomist (+44 more)
Conduct research in breeding, physiology, production, yield, and management of crops and agricultural plants or trees, shrubs, and nursery stock, their growth in soils, and control of pests; or study the chemical, physical, biological, and mineralogical composition of soils as they relate to plant or crop growth. May classify and map soils and investigate effects of alternative practices on soil and crop productivity.
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What You'll Do
- Communicate research or project results to other professionals or the public or teach related courses, seminars, or workshops.
- Provide information or recommendations to farmers or other landowners regarding ways in which they can best use land, promote plant growth, or avoid or correct problems such as erosion.
- Investigate responses of soils to specific management practices to determine the use capabilities of soils and the effects of alternative practices on soil productivity.
- Develop methods of conserving or managing soil that can be applied by farmers or forestry companies.
- Conduct experiments to develop new or improved varieties of field crops, focusing on characteristics such as yield, quality, disease resistance, nutritional value, or adaptation to specific soils or climates.
- Investigate soil problems or poor water quality to determine sources and effects.
- Study soil characteristics to classify soils on the basis of factors such as geographic location, landscape position, or soil properties.
- Develop improved measurement techniques, soil conservation methods, soil sampling devices, or related technology.
- Conduct experiments investigating how soil forms, changes, or interacts with land-based ecosystems or living organisms.
- Identify degraded or contaminated soils and develop plans to improve their chemical, biological, or physical characteristics.
Essential Skills
Career Fit Overview
Use this summary to sense whether the day to day rhythm and focus of this path line up with what energizes you.
Top passions
- Analyst: Investigating problems and finding patterns keeps you engaged.
- Maker: Building and fixing energizes you. You like tangible results and practical tools.
- Organizer: Bringing order to data and processes satisfies you.
Common styles
Integrity, Analytical Thinking, Attention to Detail, Dependability, Persistence
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Key Abilities
This career demands strong capabilities in the following areas:
Technologies & Tools
Work Environment & Style
Common Styles for This Career
- Integrity (High importance: 4.52/5)
- Analytical Thinking (High importance: 4.4/5)
- Attention to Detail (High importance: 4.33/5)
- Dependability (High importance: 4.24/5)
- Persistence (High importance: 4.24/5)
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This career requires extensive preparation, typically including a graduate degree (Master's or Doctoral) and several years of experience. Most professionals in this field have invested significant time in education and training.
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Also Known As
This career is known by many different job titles across industries. Here are all the variations:
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