Plant breeder/geneticist : Entry requirements

Relevant degree subjects include life and medical sciences and agricultural and horticultural sciences. In particular, the following degree subjects may improve your chances:

• biology;
• genetics;
• molecular biology;
• biotechnology;
• botany and plant science;
• agriculture;
• crop and plant science;
• horticulture.

A good honours degree is required and a postgraduate qualification can be advantageous. Find PhD opportunities at Find a PhD  or look for taught and research Masters courses at Find a Masters .

Entry with an HND is only possible for technical support roles in breeding programmes. It may be possible to work your way up from this role if further qualifications are studied for.

Relevant pre-entry experience will increase your chances, e.g. vacation work or a sandwich placement in a plant breeding company/laboratory or agricultural setting. Most companies take students over the summer, especially during harvesting: posts are usually advertised on the company’s website. Undertaking a relevant undergraduate or postgraduate project or choosing a PhD funded by industry will make you more competitive and will also be a way to gain useful contacts.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• enthusiasm, commitment and a strong interest in plants and plant science;
• good problem-solving skills;
• excellent oral and written communication skills;
• the ability to carry out work independently and with patience;
• a flexible approach;
• the ability and stamina to undertake research and long-term projects;
• the skills to manage a busy laboratory;
• strong teamworking skills;
• an analytical and investigative mind;
• computer literacy and technical skills, as most laboratories are highly computerised.

Some posts may require a driving licence.

You should research the industry to determine which area you would like to work in. You will also need to consider which areas may be most commercially in demand in the future.

Plant breeding is a specialised field and because of this the number of vacancies is low, but so is the pool of applicants. This means that those with relevant experience (perhaps through a summer job or placement with a plant breeding company) and relevant subjects of study have a reasonable chance of securing a position.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.