Plant Breeder Job Description
Plant breeders, also called agronomists and crop scientists, study the breeding and composition of agriculture for the purpose of improving its nutritional value and quality. Through the use of crossbreeding and (in certain environments) biotechnology, these professionals aim to create crops that are more resistant pests, droughts, disease and other acts of nature.
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Educational Requirements
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Plant breeders must have a bachelor's degree at minimum. Within many environments (e.g., universities and research laboratories), an advanced degree is required.
Employment Environments
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14 percent of those in this industry where employed by the government in 2006, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Another 15 percents worked in academia. Many choose to be self-employed consultants.
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Industry Outlook
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The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that employment of those in the agricultural science industry will increase by 9 percent by 2016.
Average Salary
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A report issued in 2006 by North Carolina State University estimated the average salary of plant breeders nationally to be $80,000.
National Association of Plant Breeders (NAPB)
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The NAPB is a collective of those in the field. Providing information regarding advancement, news and opportunities within the field, the group is a valuable resource to those interested in a career in plant breeding.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of B Balaji
