Worker Characteristics Plant scientists must be able to work with a variety of people. They should have good communication skills and the ability to make decisions based on facts. Some plant scientists spend most of their time in fieldwork studying crop growth. Those that do fieldwork are exposed to all kinds of weather. Others work in laboratories studying the chemical characteristics of crops.
Plant scientists use equipment found in laboratories, greenhouses, and farms.
Self-employed consultants have higher earning potential. The employment for this occupation is expected to grow. As the world population grows ever larger, the production of food and fiber crops becomes an ever larger task. Plant scientists will be in demand to help increase food supplies. Employers include universities, government, and seed production businesses.