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Duties and Tasks
An agricultural scientist may perform the following tasks:
- act as a consultant in the application of science to the practice of agriculture
- carry out research programs on the breeding, nutrition needs and disease resistance of plants and animals
- provide technical information to farmers and commercial firms trading in agricultural commodities and produce
- study the effects of agriculture on the environment by collecting and analysing samples of soil, groundwater and plants
- carry out experimental programs in controlled environments to develop better environmental management methods
- assist farmers in the planning and monitoring of agricultural activities, and in the diagnosis and treatment of problems (e.g. nutrient disorders in plants and livestock; weed and plant disease management)
- train and coordinate the work of technicians and field workers
- at senior levels, supervise and coordinate research teams, prepare funding applications and communicate the results of research
- prepare policy advice and assist in putting government policy into practice.
Specialisations
Agricultural scientists who specialise as winemakers deal with research and production of vines and the microbiology and chemistry of winemaking. See the separate entry for Winemaker for more information.
Agricultural Adviser
Agricultural Biotechnologist
Agricultural Entomologist
Agricultural Microbiologist
Agronomist
Animal Scientist
Crop Physiologist
Horticultural Scientist
Soil Scientist
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Quick Facts
