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Plant breeders create hybrid plants with superior traits for food supply and ecosystem health. Technicians can start with an associate degree and work their way up to a bachelor’s degree in science and plant breeding. A Ph.D. or master’s degree in biotechnology can lead to research and genetic manipulation. Employment opportunities include research universities, national research centers, and consulting firms.
Plant breeders crossbreed plants to create hybrid plants genetically formulated to exhibit superior traits. Farmers can work with forest crops, field crops or with flowers, fruits and vegetables. A plant breeder can contribute a lot to the world’s food supply, as well as improve the health of humans, animals and entire ecosystems. Those looking to become a plant breeder can start working as a plant breeding technician and eventually work their way up to a breeder with education and on-the-job training. To become a plant breeder, you generally need to possess at least a Bachelor of Science degree, and preferably a Ph.D. or master’s degree in a biotechnology field.
Those who start out as plant breeding technicians usually start out by acquiring an associate degree in botanical technology or plant breeding technology. Technicians work directly with breeders to assist in operating the labs, collecting samples and samples, as well as charts and graphs. Once a technician has gained relevant professional experience, they can finish two more years of school and complete a bachelor’s degree in science and plant breeding. Completion of a degree usually makes an employee eligible for promotion in your laboratory.
To become a plant breeder, a bachelor’s degree in agriculture or plant pathology can be helpful. To become a plant grower, it is usually necessary to receive training in horticultural science, cultivated pastures and crop science. Breeders are educated to develop new plants that have greater disease resistance, better adaptation and better quality.
Plant breeders who hold a doctorate or master’s degree in biotechnology will have the opportunity to lead grant-funded research projects as well as develop new techniques for genetic manipulation in plants. Skills learned during biotech training will help breeders develop safer methods of genetic manipulation. Crops modified for public consumption must undergo years of testing before they are available for sale or use, and research carried out on the effects of these plants often requires a great deal of cooperation on the part of the breeder.
Those who have received the proper training and education can often find employment at research universities or national research centers. Independent companies can also look to plant breeders, as well as botanical gardens and biotechnology companies. Consulting firms often employ plant breeders as well. Breeders are highly desirable for companies involved in forestry, agriculture and environmental consulting.
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