Agricultural research scientist

Agricultural research scientists find ways to solve problems in farming. They research how to improve the growing of crops and the care of livestock. Dealing with environmental and conservation issues is increasingly important in this work.

Also known as:

Farm research scientist

Work activities

Research teams can include scientists from a wide range of backgrounds, including in biological sciences, chemistry and biochemistry, with support from specialists in biometrics, computing and statistics. Agricultural research scientists can be involved in lengthy research projects, so they need a logical, systematic and patient approach to their work. They carefully design, monitor and analyse experiments to reach conclusions, regularly evaluating the project and changing their methods if necessary. Projects are likely to involve considerable amounts of time in the laboratory, as well as fieldwork, for example, to trial new crops and fertilisers. Research falls into four broad categories:

Animals.
Farm produce.
Plants.
Soils.

Agricultural research scientists usually specialise in one of the above. Across these broad areas, environmental issues (such as pollution and soil erosion) and health concerns (for example, E-coli) are of increasing importance to the scientist. The aim of soil research programmes is to find out about the characteristics of different soils. This research can include the biology, chemistry and physics of soils, with projects involving soil scientists, biochemists and microbiologists, for example. Agricultural research scientists use their findings to advise others on the best use of soils, having developed knowledge of crop nutrition, the use of fertilisers, and land management methods that minimise soil erosion. Typical research areas include ways to increase yields, fight pests and reduce the use of chemical pesticides.

Agricultural research scientists look into methods that improve crop production while protecting wildlife. Some scientists research ways to improve plant breeding techniques. This means crossing different plant species to create combined (or hybrid) species, sometimes with desirable characteristics from each of its parents. For example, the hybrid might have increased resistance to drought or pests, or greater tolerance to humidity and temperature extremes. Some agricultural research scientists explore the use of modern methods of genetic modification to change plant characteristics. Research programmes on animals could be into the genetics of breeding livestock, or the search for methods to control diseases and limit damage by predators. Animal physiologists, geneticists, bacteriologists and pathologists specialise in this type of work.

Some scientists help agrochemical companies to produce efficient new pesticides and fertilisers. Others find ways to protect plants without using chemical products, which can reduce farmers’ costs and damage to the environment caused when chemicals pollute river systems near to farms. In farm produce research, scientists aim to improve the way that people in agriculture handle and preserve cereals, vegetables, meat, milk and eggs. Priorities include dealing with diseases that can be passed on to animals and humans, and reducing loss or damage to produce while it is in storage.

Personal qualities and skills

To be an agricultural research scientist, you’ll need:

A high level of scientific knowledge, especially in biology and chemistry.
To be accurate and methodical in field and laboratory work.
Good organisational skills to plan projects and experiments.
The ability to explain results clearly and concisely, including in written reports.
Teamwork skills.
Maths and statistics skills to analyse experiments.
The ability to use a variety of equipment and technology, including computers.
Agricultural research scientists need management skills if they are leading projects and supervising people.

Pay and opportunities

Research scientists earn in the range of £18,000 - £42,000 a year. People in senior positions can earn more.

Agricultural research scientists usually work 39-41 hours a week, Monday to Friday. However, early starts, late finishes, shifts and weekend work may be required.

Local and national government departments and agencies employ most agricultural research scientists. There are also opportunities with research bodies such as ADAS Farming Association (ADAS) and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). ADAS provides a research and consultancy service for land-based industries. The BBSRC undertakes and organises research in institutes and universities across the UK.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on the ADAS website, in agricultural and scientific magazines (such as New Scientist), on general and specialist job boards (for example, for farming and environmental jobs) and in local/national newspapers.

Entry routes and training

Most entrants have a degree in a relevant subject, such as:

Agricultural science.
Animal, soil or plant science.
Biotechnology.
Chemistry or biochemistry.

Entry can also be possible with an HND or foundation degree, although this is likely to be into a technician-level post. Postgraduate qualifications can be an advantage for entry and are essential for some posts. If you have a good honours degree (first or upper second class), you might be able to apply for a postgraduate studentship with a research institute. This can allow you to study for a higher degree, such as a PhD, while working at the institute.

You may be able to get into this role through a level 6 degree apprenticeship in the role of laboratory scientist, if you can find an opportunity with a relevant employer. This way, you will carry out most of your training on the job, while studying towards your degree alongside work.

Progression is into more senior positions, for example, with management or financial responsibility.

Qualifications

Entrants come from a variety of scientific backgrounds, usually having degrees in subjects such as biological sciences; biochemistry; chemistry; plant, soil and animal science; biotechnology; and agricultural science. The usual minimum entry requirements for degree courses will vary depending on the subject. Usually, they will be:

Two to three A-levels.
GCSEs at grades 9-4 in two to three other subjects.

Alternatives to A levels include:

Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 National qualifications
International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

You’ll need two relevant A-levels plus GCSEs in English and maths to get onto a degree apprenticeship.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you don’t have the qualifications you need to enter a degree, foundation degree or HND course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course. You don’t usually need any qualifications to start an Access course, although you should check individual course details.

Funding for further study may be available from the Studley College Trust. Candidates should see the Trust website to check on eligibility.

Related careers

Agricultural consultant
Biochemist
Biotechnologist
Botanist
Horticultural scientist
Microbiologist
Scientist
Soil scientist
Zoological scientist