So you clicked on farm research scientist, eh? Would you say you're looking for a career that's just ripe for the picking? A career where you can harvest success from your hard work? One that allows you to work far away from anyone making gratuitous farming puns? What do you know—farm research scientist offers all that and so much more.

 

On the research list: how to breed chickens to look friendlier. (Source)

Despite being a downright ancient occupation, farming isn't as simple as it seems. Or rather, there are a lot of factors that, if improved, could lead to a more profitable farming venture. We know, for example, that certain types of soil composition are better suited for vegetable growing, and that planting certain crops next to certain other ones can cut down on the pests that would otherwise ravage them if planted apart. 

Farm research scientists identify areas in which farming could be more efficient, then work to improve the necessary processes.

To succeed as a farm research scientist, you'll need a broad knowledge base. If you're looking to increase egg production, milk production, or crop yields per acre, you'll need to tap into your knowledge of math and biology in addition to agricultural studies. 

As the public demands greater food safety and increasingly rejects genetically modified (GMO) crops, the wisdom of farm research scientists is hugely important. It's up to you to literally help grow our food supply. Talk about job security.

In the U.S., the median salary for all farm research scientists is close to $60,000 per year (source). The number can go much higher, though, particularly if you score a research job at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Private sector and local or state government jobs all pay nearly $40,000 at the entry level. This is one of many jobs for which an advanced degree is crucial if you want to earn more.

Before you can start earning, you have to get your learning on. Farm research science requires at least a bachelor's degree. Many of the best programs in this field are at A&M colleges or state land grant schools, which is great because one of those schools should be close enough to wherever you live that you can probably get in-state, public school tuition. Go to class and save some cash. We like that. You probably will too.

 

"Uh, we're here for the hay baling seminar?" (Source)

Here's something you'll also like: there are several related fields of study, so even if you want to go to a non-A&M school you can still become a farm research scientist. Majors like biology, chemistry, and some engineering fields also meet the requirements for the farm research field.

Internships are important in this field, and may be required for your degree. They're also a great way to audition for a paying job when cap and gown time is over. Here's a helpful hint: look for internship opportunities with companies that offer tuition reimbursement. It won't help pay for your bachelor's degree, but if you plan to get a graduate degree, you can have a nice chunk of the cost paid for by your employer.

Farm research scientists need good communication skills, excellent data analysis skills, and to be very observant. And, as with any science, they must be methodical and good at following standard practices for meaningful research. 

A final tip: if you want to make a fortune in this field, we suggest researching ways to make an all-natural, healthy, low-calorie cheeseburger that also reverses the aging process. It's a tall order, but that thing would sell.

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