Agricultural Food Scientist
OFO No:
What is an Agricultural Food Scientist?
Agricultural Scientists study the commercial farming of plants and animals as well as the cultivation techniques to improve the quality, productivity and sustainability of farms.
The work of Agricultural Scientists plays an important part in maintaining the country’s food supply by ensuring agricultural productivity and food safety.
Many Agricultural Scientists work in basic or applied research and development.
Basic research:
seeks to understand the biological and chemical processes by which crops and livestock grow, such as determining the role of a particular gene in plant growth
Applied research:
uses this knowledge to discover ways to improve the quality, quantity, or safety of agricultural products
Agricultural Scientists may also manage research and development programs, monitoring production operations in companies that produce food products or agricultural chemicals, supplies, and machinery.
Some Agricultural Scientists may also consult.
What does an Agricultural Food Scientist do?
- they collect and analyse data and samples of produce, feed, soil etc
- they study farm crops and animals and develop ways of improving their quantity and quality
- they study environmental factors affecting crop production, pasture growth and breeding programs
- they study the effects of cultivation techniques, soils, insects and plant diseases on animal and crop production
- they develop strategies and techniques for solving agricultural problems
- they develop ways to conserve soil and water
- they advise farmers and managers on new techniques for improving the production
- they advise farmers on crop disease, pest control, including weeds, soil improvement, breeding and feeding programs
Are you … ?
- interested in farming?
- passionate about science?
- willing to travel?
- inquisitive?
- able to analyse and solve problems?
- observant?
- a good communicator?
- able to write reports?
- able to make accurate observations?
- organised?
How do I become an Agricultural Food Scientist?
One needs to study an agricultural degree or diploma. Most universities and universities of technology offer this.
- THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA
It has a completely separate department for Food Science. They offer a variety of Bachelor of Science degrees.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Accounting, Economics, Agricultural Sciences, Life Sciences
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education.
- CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
