What kind of scientists study plants

Genetic modification and gene editing are techniques used by plant scientists to alter the characteristics or traits of plants by changing their DNA. These technologies can inhibit the expression of harmful traits or introduce new characteristics which are of benefit, and work toward the same goals as traditional plant breeding but in a more controlled and speedier way. We rely on plants for food, and this means that environmental changes, including climate change, have major consequences for humankind.

Understanding and preserving plant biodiversity are key for the protection of our food supply and for saving iconic species like the ash tree Fraxinus excelsior. Understanding the impact of the environment on plants and their genes , and working on designing future wheat are the focus of two of the strategic programmes at the John Innes Centre.

Our own history in plant science dates back to the early 20 th Century and the death of London property developer and philanthropist John Innes To decide the fate of the inheritance a charity was formed, the John Innes Charity now called the John Innes Foundation. Following its creation, the Charity held protracted negotiations with the Board of Agriculture, the Board of Education and the Charity Commissioners, who eventually agreed to establish a new institute. Over years later the John Innes Centre is internationally recognised as a world leader in genetics, microbial research and plant science.

Others study plant processes at the molecular level to find new uses for them as medicines, remediation tools, raw materials, biofuels, or fabrics. Some botanists study the effects of different types of pollution on plants. They use what they learn to advise policymakers and help protect endangered species and natural areas. The important work of botanists is critical to environmental conservation.

Their research helps determine how different plants may react to climate change, and how to protect native species from invasive ones. Agricultural botanists work at the front lines of the food crisis, and help increase supplies of medicines, fibers, and timber as well.

Learn more about botany: study of plants. Botanists work for seed companies, where they conduct research to enhance seed properties. They also work on genetic engineering or product development for biotechnology firms and pharmaceutical companies. Some work at museums, parks, and botanicals gardens. Others are employed as teachers at colleges, universities, and secondary schools.

Some work primarily indoors in laboratories and offices. Others botanists, such as those who work in remediation or agriculture, spend much of their time working outside.

They may work in cities, near farms, or at wilderness areas. They typically work full-time, sometimes putting in more than 40 hours per week. Post to EnvironmentalScience. Botanists with professional experience are often given a leadership role in the workgroup.

Many times, this results in additional tasks like:. Botany-related positions generally require a bachelor's degree. Most botanists have degrees in botany, plant science, plant biology, or general biology. This is a great way to bring nature to the city and build an organic farming career. A career in plant biology involves becoming an expert in different vegetation including flowers, grass, algae, shrubs, moss, cacti, and edibles like vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

Instead, their work revolves around laboratories, collect specimens, and making reports for various agencies. Just like animals, plants also get attacked by diseases. To understand plant diseases and determine their characteristics, plant pathologists run tests and conduct laboratory experiments.

The best thing about being a plant pathologist is that you may have the chance to develop new plant types that are disease-resistant.

It will allow you to contribute something meaningful to society. Disease-resistant plants are beneficial, particularly in the field of food production. Another plant-related career that allows you to create new types of plants is plant genetics. Your work will revolve around isolating different genes. The end goal is to develop specific and favorable plant traits. Anyone who is fascinated by plants and loves helping people should consider becoming a horticultural therapist.

This career combines social service with gardening to help support and heal people who have mental and physical health problems. Horticultural therapists work in different settings including hospitals, community gardens, rehabilitation centers, correctional facilities, and even retirement homes. The study of horticultural therapy combines plant and human science. It also involves studying horticultural therapy techniques and concepts.

You can take human and plant science courses online and offline in universities or colleges. If you like choosing and arranging flowers for special events such as weddings and debuts, then you might want to consider becoming a floriculturist. A floriculturist cultivates flowers and ornamental plants and design bouquets or supplies such flowers for commercial use.

Floriculturists with advanced degrees are also found in universities and in the horticultur e industry to conduct research where they develop and breed new varieties of flowers.

The minimum education requirement for becoming a floriculturist is a high school diploma. Those with advanced degrees can also teach courses in floriculture and conduct research studies. A plant videographer creates films or documentaries that are centered on natural resources, which would usually include plants.

These films would also focus on environmental issues and problems that involve plants. Think about the shows that you see on National Geographic or Discovery Channel. If you would like to work for such shows behind the scenes, then being a plant videographer would be a great career path for you. Specifically, videography refers to the process of recording and capturing moving images on camera.

The work generally includes video production and post-production work like video editing. Generally, one does not need a formal education to become a plant videographer. However, some training, skill, and experience in videography are required. Do you enjoy writing and gardening at the same time?

Why Plant Intelligence is Real. Why Is the Food Web Important? The Effects of Radiation on Plants. Project Topics in Microbiology for Undergraduates. Uses of DNA Extraction.