Plant science, also known as botany, is a fascinating branch of biological sciences which focuses on the biology, diversity, genomics, evolution and adaptation of plants.
What do Plant Scientists do?
Plant scientists study plants, fungi and algae to develop innovative solutions and products which improve food and crop security, sustainability and the conservation of natural resources. Plant science also plays a central role in rapidly expanding areas such as synthetic biology, plant biotechnology and biofuels.
Experts in this field work in higher education research and teaching and sectors such as agriculture, conservation and environmental science.
Lecturing Jobs in Plant Science
In the UK, plant science is taught as a standalone degree or as part of other biological sciences programmes. More specialist programmes in plant science are offered at postgraduate level.
Lecturers in this field teach both undergraduate and postgraduate students and carry out specialised plant science research.
Duties include:
- Pursuing high-quality individual/collaborative plant science research.
- Applying for external research funding (individually/collectively).
- Publication of research outcomes in internationally recognised journals and papers.
- Delivery of lectures, practical/laboratory classes and tutorials at all levels.
- Curriculum innovation and development
- Setting and marking examinations and assessments.
- Networking with experts in the field and forging new partnerships.
- Mentoring and supervision of student research projects at all levels.
How to become a Plant Science lecturer
The majority of lecturing jobs in plant science require candidates to have the following qualifications, experience and knowledge:
Essential qualifications
- A first degree and/or MSc in plant science/botany or related biological science.
- A PhD in an area related to plant science.
- A recognised teaching qualification and/or Associate Membership or Fellowship with Advance HE. The requirement to have a teaching qualification or fellowship can be either essential or desirable criteria, depending on the higher education employer.
Experience and knowledge
You will need a breadth of knowledge across biological sciences along with specific research interests in plant science which align with the current priorities and programmes of the institution you are applying to. Most lecturers will have already completed postdoctoral research in a specialist area of plant science.
Experience in higher education teaching, supervision and mentorship would be an advantage, although some HE providers may be willing to overlook a lack of teaching experience if your research interests are aligned.
What’s the pay?
A HE plant science lecturer can expect a starting salary in the range of £38,165 to £40,223 p.a., depending on qualifications and experience.
What can it lead to?
A lecturing job in biological sciences is an exciting first step in an academic career. After several years in the role, you could apply for a senior lecturer or associate professor role. Promotion would depend on the success and visibility of your research and your ability to inspire students through innovative teaching.
You may decide to pursue your interests in a research-only position as a senior research fellow or associate. Alternatively, you could move into a different sector altogether, for example, as a senior plant scientist in the biotechnology or pharmaceuticals industries or working in a conservation role in the charity sector.
Where can I find jobs?
There is limited availability of plant science lecturer jobs as a single discipline. However, you will find that your skills and knowledge as a plant scientist can help you land lecturing jobs across biological sciences.
There’s more scope for plant science and associated roles (such as soil or environmental scientist) in private-sector industries, government and public bodies and the conservation sector.
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