Put your green thumb to work! Botanists study the biology of all types of plants to increase scientific knowledge and investigate the effects of environmental factors such as rainfall, temperature, sunlight, soil, topography (place) and disease on plant growth. Botanists work in labs in the field and may have the opportunity to travel to remote areas when carrying out research.
Education Requirements:
A four-year undergraduate degree in botany or biology is the bare minimum to become a biological technician or assistant botanist but a Master’s or Ph.D. in botany or in a specialization such as plant physiology is recommended.
Job Prospects:
Botanists with a minimum of a Master’s degree can apply directly to colleges and universities, private firms, museums, botanical gardens and government agencies involved with plant science. Most botanists feel that the highest form of advancement is to be recognized as experts in their areas of specialization. Generally botanists get this type of recognition after publishing significant research findings in professional journals but they should expect stiff competition for research grants and positions.
Earning Power:
The average annual salary for a botanist is approx. $56,000 but can double with added education, experience and expertise.
