botanist

The work

Botanists (sometimes known as plant biologists) study all forms of plant life both in the natural environment and in laboratories. They have many different job roles as their work in used in a variety of areas, including:

• conservation and protection of the environment
• agriculture
• forestry
• horticulture
• medicine
• biotechnology
• food science.

There are a number of specialisms in botany, including:

• the study of specific groups of plants
• plant anatomy and physiology
• biochemistry
• molecular biology
• genetics
• ecology
• marine botany 
• taxonomy (the identification and classification of plants).

The work varies depending on the particular job, but can include:

• identifying, classifying, recording and monitoring plant species
• searching for new species
• studying the effects of pollution on plant life
• studying the effects of developments such as new buildings on plant life
• identifying and purifying useful chemicals produced by plants so that they can be used in products such as drugs, food, fabrics, solvents and building materials
• presenting the results of their research in journals, books and scientific reports and at academic conferences
• training and supervising junior staff and volunteers
• teaching in universities.

Botanists use  a wide range of techniques and equipment, such as:

• electron microscopes
• radioisotopes
• digital imaging analysis
• polymerase chain reaction
• cell and tissue culture
• telemetry
• satellite imaging.
  

Hours and Environment

Botanists usually work around 35 hours a week, although this varies according to the project – some processes may require continuous monitoring which will mean working unsocial hours.

Field work may involve lengthy periods away from home and extensive travel, often overseas.

Skills and Interests

To be a botanist you should:

• be interested in nature and the environment
• have a thorough knowledge of science, particularly biology and chemistry
• be able to conduct detailed work accurately and methodically
• be able to plan research, analyse and interpret data, and write reports
• have practical skills and the ability to solve problems
• have patience, perseverance and the ability to concentrate for long periods.

Entry

You will need a degree for most positions as a laboratory technician or technical assistant. Relevant subjects include:

• botany
• plant biology
• plant science
• environmental science
• ecology.

To get onto a degree course you will usually need:

• two or three A levels/four or five Highers, including biology and at least one other science;  and
• five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including maths, English and science subjects.

Comparable qualifications or an Access to Higher Education qualification may also be accepted for entry to some courses. If you are experienced in a related field, you may be able to gain recognition of skills through Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL). Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

For some careers you will need a postgraduate qualification (either an MSc or PhD). For research and teaching posts you will usually need a PhD.

The 'Education and Careers' section of the Institute of Biology (IOB) website, has advice on choosing courses. Please see the Further Information section for contact details. The website also has information on biology-related careers.

The Biology4all website has links to university bioscience departments, as well as general resources. Please see Further Information.

There can be a lot of competition for jobs, especially in fieldwork and conservation, and most entrants gain experience by doing voluntary work with relevant organisations before applying for a first job.

Training

After you have completed a first degree, if you want a career in research, you will need a PhD. This will involve:

• working on a research project alongside senior research colleagues
• developing the skills and determination you will need for carrying out research
• producing a thesis based on your findings
• being interviewed at length about your work.

If you are successful you will then be awarded a PhD or other qualification. 

For jobs not needing a postgraduate qualification it will be an advantage if you have relevant experience. You could gain this by volunteering with a relevant organisation. As a volunteer you may be trained in relevant areas such as conservation techniques and plant identification.

You can do training in biological recording skills through the Botanical Society of the British Isles and the Field Studies Council. You can find contact details for both organisations in the Further Information section.

The IOB runs a continuing professional development scheme (CPD) for members. Details are on the IOB website - please see the Further Information section for contact details.

Opportunities

Botanists are employed by:

• government research institutes
• universities
• conservation organisations
• private businesses involved in biotechnology and medicine production
• agriculture and horticulture
• botanical gardens and collections
• the food and leisure industries.

In industry experienced botanists may gain promotion to more senior positions. In field research and conservation progression usually involves taking on more organisational, planning, management or advisory responsibilities. It may be possible to become self-employed as a freelance consultant.

Some botanists move into scientific journalism and illustration or into teaching.

There are opportunities for botanists to work overseas in conservation, fieldwork, or for multi-national companies.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Recent graduates employed as technical assistants earn around £18,400 a year.
Botanists in research posts earn up to £27,400.
Senior lecturers in botany at universities may earn up to £40,000 a year.

Salaries for those working in private industry will vary considerably.

Further information

Montford Bridge
Preston Montford
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY4 1HW
Tel: 0845 345 4071
9 Red Lion Court
London
EC4A 3EF
Tel: 020 7936 5900

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