How to Become an Agricultural Scientist – A Complete Guide

A career in agriculture is always a great option because it is one of the largest sectors that play an important role in the country's economy. There are many career options in agriculture, for example you can become a Food safety Officer, Agriculture Officer, Agriculture Engineer, Agricultural Scientist etc. In this article, we will tell you as to how you can become an Agricultural Scientist.  

What is the work of an agricultural scientist?

Agri Scientist is an expert or specialist who analyzes various farming methods and food production methods to improve crop yield. Through research, he works on new and innovative ways to enhance the quality of food grown & supplied.

Agricultural Scientist must have following skills and qualities;

• Interest in science and environment

• Able to make correct observations

• Able to analyse & solve problems

• Good communication skills

• Good reasoning & problem solving skills

Eligibility and Qualification of Agricultural Scientist

If you want to become an agricultural scientist, you must have scored at least 50 percent in Physics, Chemistry & Biology in Class XII.

Agricultural entrance tests are held at national as well as state level for admission in Under Graduate and Post Graduate programs.

After Graduation, you can go for M.SC in Agriculture where you can specialize in Agronomy, Sericulture, Soil Science, Soil Conservation, Plant Pathology, Plant Protection, Agri Botany, Social Forestry, Ecology, Plant Physiology, Seed technology, and MicroBiology. M.SC in Agriculture is a two-year course.

After M.SC you can pursue a PhD. You can also become an Agricultural Scientist after completing post-graduation. All you have to do is appear for Agriculture Research Services (ARS) exam that is conducted by Agricultural Scientists Recruitment Board. Further to get recognized as a scientist in India’s reputed agricultural institutes and R&D sectors such as ICAR after PhD, you can appear in ARS NET exam.

Top Agricultural Colleges in India

There are many agriculture colleges in India that offer courses in agriculture science, agronomy, soil science etc. 

• Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi

• Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana

• National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal

• Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology

• Tamil Nadu Agricultural University

• Kerala Agricultural University etc.

• Indian Veterinary Research Institute

There are four main or important areas where there is a huge demand for Agricultural Scientists ­- Food Science, Plant Science, Animal Science and Soil Science.

What is the Salary of an Agricultural Scientist

Agricultural Scientist salary (pay scale) basically depends upon their academic qualification, university or college from which the degree is attained & their work experience. Salary of agri scientist also depends upon organization to organization