How to Become an Agriculture Scientist?
Unveil the pathway to becoming a leading agricultural scientist in India with insights, career guidance, and more.
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Agriculture Scientist
"Agricultural science is the art of understanding nature's wisdom and applying it to feed the world responsibly." - Dr. Emily Johnson
Have you ever wondered what it takes to become an agricultural scientist? These professionals are the unsung heroes behind the advancements in farming techniques, crop yields, and sustainable agriculture practices. If you have a passion for agriculture and science, a career as an agricultural scientist might be your calling. Let's embark on a journey to discover how to become an agriculture scientist, the qualifications needed, and the exciting career prospects that await you.
Steps to Become an Agriculture Scientist:
Step-1
Focus on science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in 12th grade, securing at least 50% aggregate marks.
Step-2
Prepare and score well in entrance exams like JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CET, or state-specific exams. Some universities conduct their own exams if national scores aren't satisfactory.
Step-3
Enroll in a B.Sc. in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, or related fields. This degree is essential for foundational knowledge in agriculture.
Step-4
Participate in internships, workshops, and fieldwork during your undergraduate studies to gain hands-on experience.
Step-5
Consider obtaining an M.Sc. in Agriculture or specialized fields like Agronomy, Plant Pathology, or Agricultural Engineering to deepen your expertise.
Step-6
Get involved in research during your postgraduate studies. This experience is crucial for developing analytical and investigative skills.
Step-7
Learn about the latest agricultural technologies, including biotechnology and nanotechnology, as they are integral to modern agricultural research.
Step-8
After your studies, explore jobs at research institutes, universities, and ag firms. A Ph.D. enables advanced research roles and academic positions.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Complete 10+2 education 50% aggregate |
| Educational Background | Science stream in high school with subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics |
| Undergraduate Degree | B.Sc. in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, or related fields |
| Postgraduate Degree | M.Sc. in Agriculture or related specializations such as Agronomy, Plant Pathology, etc. |
| Entrance Exams | ICAR AIEEA, CETs conducted by state agricultural universities |
- Must have at least 50% aggregate in 12th grade from any recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC). The cut-off varies by college. A science qualification is required for a degree in science.
- Should have a valid score in Entrance exams after 12th like JEE-Main, KIITEE, SRMJEE, CET, etc. Some colleges offer their own entrance exams if JEE scores are not satisfactory.
- Must earn a degree in B.Sc/B. Tech or a Diploma to become an Agricultural Scientist.
- An M.Tech in Agricultural Engineering is beneficial for advanced learning and career opportunities.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as an Agriculture Scientist:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Agriculture Scientists require a diverse range of skills and knowledge areas to succeed in their roles. Below are the essential competencies needed for success in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding the growth, physiology, and genetics of plants. | Study of insects and pests that affect crops and methods to manage them. |
| Knowledge about different soil types, fertility, and conservation methods. | Application of biotechnological methods to improve crop yield and resistance. |
| Techniques for efficient and sustainable crop production and management. | Understanding the impact of climate change on agriculture and developing adaptation strategies. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Analytical Skills | Communication Skills |
| Problem-Solving | Technical Skills |
| Fieldwork Skills | Project Management |
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for an Agriculture Scientist:
Once you qualify as an Agricultural Scientist, numerous career paths open up such as Agricultural Engineer and many others. You can undertake various projects within this field and explore diverse related fields:
Responsible for identifying potential issues and ensuring production quality before product launch. Collaborates with various departments to balance program components like security and aesthetics and explores cost-effective technology options.
Manages and oversees experimental procedures and investigations. Involves tasks from recruitment to data collection and health management inspections, primarily for pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions. Requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Works with scientists and engineers in labs to solve biological challenges. Involves setting up equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and documenting results. Familiarity with applicable federal and state regulations governing the field is necessary.
Interacts with customers to understand their needs and collaborates with departments to enhance user experience. Balances program safety and aesthetics and researches new technologies for cost-effective solutions. Typically starts as a junior engineer with a background in Mechanical Engineering or related fields.
Leads teams in technical or engineering projects, ensuring project architecture, coherence, and performance. Plans, organizes, and supervises tasks, communicating with clients and team members to meet project goals. Manages schedules and adheres to regulations and performance standards.
Focuses on improving crop production by conducting research on soil management, crop rotation, and pest control. Works with farmers to develop effective planting, harvesting, and irrigation techniques to maximize yield and sustainability.
Studies plant genetics to develop new crop varieties with desirable traits such as disease resistance, drought tolerance, and improved nutritional value. Conducts genetic experiments and collaborates with biotechnologists to apply genetic modifications.
Analyzes soil composition and properties to advise on soil management practices. Helps farmers and land managers improve soil health, fertility, and crop production while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career opportunities in Agriculture Scientist:
Agriculture Scientists can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Tech-in-Farm | BHUMITANTRA | Greenikk |
| PepsiCo | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada | DEV |
| JSW Ventures | Resonance | BigHaat India |
| Syngenta |
Colleges offering courses as an Agricultural Scientist
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| College of Engineering - Anna University, Chennai | Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur |
| Bannari Amman Institute of Technology, Sathyamangalam | Integral University, Lucknow |
| ITFM University, Moradabad | Maharashtra Institute of Technology, Pune |
| Agricultural College and Research University, Tiruchirapalli | Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kakinada |
| University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore | Swami Vivekananda University, Kolkata |
End Note
Venturing on a journey to become an agricultural scientist is both challenging and rewarding. The path involves rigorous education and training, but the impact you can make on the world through sustainable agriculture is immense. Connect with our experts at SetMyCareer for Career counselling after graduation to guide you along your career goals and help you navigate the steps to becoming an accomplished agricultural scientist. Your future in advancing agriculture starts here!
In this Career Outline
Get In Touch
No. 14/595, 1st Floor, Nanjappa Reddy Layout, Koramangala 8th Block, Bangalore 560095