Botanist Job Description Template
A botanist studies plants, algae, and fungi. They may work in a lab or in the field. In a lab, they might conduct experiments on plant specimens. In the field, they might collect plant specimens for study. Botanists may also work in greenhouses or nurseries, where they help to grow and care for plants.
Botanist Job Responsibilities
- Plan and conduct botanical research programs
- Collect plant specimens for herbariums and greenhouses
- Identify plants using taxonomic keys
- Write scientific papers on botanical findings
- Give lectures and presentations on botanical topics
- Serve as a consultant to government agencies, businesses, and private individuals on matters related to plants and horticulture
Objectives
- To study and document the diversity of plant life in a given area
- To understand the how plants interact with their environment and how they are affected by changes in their surroundings
- To develop new or improved methods for growing, propagating, and protecting plants
- To study the medicinal properties of plants and work on developing new or improved treatments using plantbased substances
- To use botanical knowledge to solve problems in agriculture, forestry, horticulture, or other related fields
Botanist Job Skills & Qualifications Needed
- The skills and qualifications needed for the role of botanist vary depending on the employer and the specific job requirements. However, most employers will require at least a bachelor's degree in botany or a related field, and many positions will also require experience working with plants in a research or laboratory setting. Additionally, strong communication and writing skills are often necessary in order to effectively communicate findings to colleagues and the general public.