Botanist
What is the work like?
Botanists (sometimes known as plant biologists) study all forms of plant life both in the natural environment and in laboratories. They have many different job roles, as their work is used in a variety of areas, including environmental conservation, agriculture, forestry, horticulture, medicine, biotechnology and food science.
Specialisms in botany include:
- the study of specific plant groups
- plant anatomy and physiology
- biochemistry
- molecular biology
- genetics
- ecology
- marine botany
- taxonomy (the identification and classification of plants).
As a botanist, your work would vary depending on the particular job, but could include:
- identifying, classifying, recording and monitoring plant species
- searching for new species
- studying the effects of pollution on plant life
- studying the effects of developments such as new buildings on plant life in the area
- identifying and purifying chemicals produced by plants for use in products such as drugs, food, fabrics, solvents and building materials
- presenting research results in journals, books and at academic conferences
- training and supervising junior staff and volunteers
- teaching in a university.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
For most jobs you will need a degree. Relevant subjects include:
- botany
- plant biology
- plant science
- environmental science
- ecology.
To search for colleges and universities offering foundation degrees, HNDs and degrees see Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. You should check entry requirements with individual colleges or universities.
For some jobs you will also need a postgraduate qualification (either an MSc or PhD). For research and teaching posts you will usually need a PhD.
Visit the Institute of Biology (IOB) website for advice on choosing courses and information on biology-related careers.
You can find links to university bioscience departments, and other useful resources on the Biology4all website .
Competition for jobs can be strong, especially in fieldwork and conservation, so it will be useful if you gain experience by volunteering with relevant organisations before applying for your first job. As a volunteer, you may be trained in areas such as conservation techniques and plant identification.
What further training and development can I do?
After you have completed a degree, if you want a career in research, you will need a PhD. This will involve:
- working on a research project alongside senior research colleagues
- developing the skills and determination you will need for carrying out research
- producing a thesis based on your findings
- being interviewed at length about your work.
If you are successful you will then be awarded a PhD.
You can train in biological recording skills through the Botanical Society of the British Isles, and the Field Studies Council.
As a member of the Institute of Biology (IOB) you can join the IOB continuing professional development scheme (CPD).
Where can I go for more information?
Montford BridgePreston
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY4 1HW
Tel: 0845 345 4071
London
EC4A 3EF
Tel: 020 7936 5900
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Recent graduates employed as technical assistants earn around £18,400 a year.
- Botanists in research posts earn up to £27,400.
- Senior lecturers in botany at universities can earn up to £40,000 a year.
Salaries for people working in private industry will vary considerably.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your working hours will vary according to the project – some processes may involve continuous monitoring, which will mean working unsocial hours.
Field work can involve extensive travel, often overseas, so you may have to spend lengthy periods away from home.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an interest in nature and the environment
- a thorough knowledge of science, particularly biology and chemistry
- accuracy and attention to detail
- a methodical approach
- research skills
- the ability to analyse, interpret and report on data
- practical skills
- problem solving ability
- patience, perseverance and good concentration.
What opportunities are there?
You could find work as a botanist in areas such as:
- government research institutes
- universities
- conservation organisations
- agriculture and horticulture
- botanical gardens and collections
- the food industry.
You could have the opportunity to work overseas in conservation, fieldwork, or for a multinational company.
With experience in industry, you could progress to more senior positions. In field research and conservation you will usually need to take on more organisational, planning, management or advisory responsibilities in order to progress.
You may also be able to become self-employed as a freelance consultant.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and further reading (links open in new window):
Science Careers
New Scientist Jobs
Nature
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