Botanist
Useful Links
https://www.myworldofwork.co.uk/my-career-options/job-profiles/botanist
https://www.conservation-careers.com/how-to-become-a-botanist/
https://www.environmentalscience.org/career/botanist
https://www.bestmastersdegrees.com/best-masters-degrees-faq/what-careers-are-in-botany
https://www.academicinvest.com/science-careers/botany-careers
What is a botanist?
Botanists, or Plant Biologists, study all forms of plant life, including fungi and algae, in the laboratory or in their natural environment. They work for a wide range of industries including agriculture, environmental conservation, forestry, pharmaceuticals and food science.
You could specialise in:
The study of specific plant groups
Plant anatomy and physiology
Biochemistry
Molecular biology
Genetics
Ecology
Marine botany
Paleobotany (study of fossilised plant remains)
Taxonomy (the identification and classification of plants)
You could work in a wide range of industries including agriculture, conservation, forestry, pharmaceuticals and food science. Your role would vary depending on the particular job.
You could:
Identify, classify, record and monitor plant species
Do ecological surveys and environmental impact assessments
Manage a plant collection, for example, at a botanic gardens
Search for new species
Study the effects of pollution or new buildings on plant life
Identify and purify chemicals produced by plants so they can be used in products such as drugs, food, fabrics, solvents and building materials
You would present research results in academic journals and at conferences. You might also teach at a university or train and supervise junior staff and volunteers
Taken from my world of work.
Qualifications
Useful subjects at Level 3
Maths (required by most courses)
Science subjects, biology preferred (required for most courses)
English
Geography
University
You need a degree in plant science or a biology-related subject. Relevant degree subjects include:
Botany
Plant biology
Plant Science
Environmental science
Ecology