22/04/2020
*Career Opportunities and Job Prospects for Botany Graduates in Nigeria*
Botany, also called plant science(s), plant biology or phytology, is the science of plant life and a branch of biology. A botanist or plant scientist is a scientist who specialises in this field. The term "botany" comes from the Ancient Greek word βοτ?νη (botan?) meaning "pasture", "grass", or "fodder"; βοτ?νη is in turn derived from β?σκειν (boskein), "to feed" or "to graze".
Botany originated in prehistory as herbalism with the efforts of early humans to identify – and later cultivate – edible, medicinal and poisonous plants, making it one of the oldest branches of science.
Scope of Botany
Botany encompasses the study of living things in the kingdom Plantae, also known as plants. Plants are organisms that make their own food (autotrophic) using photosynthesis and includes trees, grasses, shrubs, mosses and algae. One feature of plants that distinguishes them from other organisms is the presence of a cell wall.
All living things were organized as plants or animals previously, and botany encompasses the study of all organisms and does not include animals. Botanists test both the internal functions and processes within the organelles of plants, tissues and plants communities. At every level, botanists are concerned with the classification, evolution, phylogeny or function of plant life.
Required Skills and Competencies for Botanists
A botanist needs:
to enjoy and have an aptitude for scientific research.
patience.
good communication skills.
a methodical approach to work.
a logical and enquiring mind.
You'll also need:
accuracy and attention to detail.
a methodical approach.
research skills.
the ability to analyse, interpret and report on data.
strong communication skills.
practical skills.
problem-solving ability.
plant identification skills
scientific skills
IT skills
Analytical skills
Numeracy and math
Preparing reports
Presentation skills
Time management
Problem solving and logical thinking
Skills with various computer applications and technology
Planning skills
Strong observational skills.
Career Prospects and Job Opportunities in Botany
Agricultural Chemist
Agricultural Consultant
Agrologist
Biologist
Biostatistician
Blogger
Botanical Field Technician
Botanist
Cell Biologist
Conservation Officer
Entrepreneur
Environmental Analyst
Environmental Education Assistant
Environmental Education Officer
Environmental Impact Assessment Specialist
Environmental Lawyer
Environmental Policy Officer
Environmental Technician
Florist
Forest Manager
Forest Technician
Forestry Consultant
Global Warming Advocate
Greenhouse Operator
Horticulturalist
International Aid Worker
Laboratory Manager
Land Manager
Market Gardener
Museum Curator
Mycologist
Natural Resources Manager
Natural Resources Planner
Naturalist
Nursery Operator
Plant Geneticist
Range Manager
Research Assistant
Soil Conservationist
Soil Scientist
University Professor
Wildlife Manager etc
*Please note* Some of the above listed careers require additional education, training and/or experience. Click on careers that are of interest to you to find out more about the qualifications you’ll need.
*Perks of Careers in Botany*
Like many career fields, a career in botany has its own unique set of perks and selling points. These are the kind of points that can be the difference between dreading your alarm clock and hating your working life, to truly enjoying what you do and looking forward to work:
>Working in botany careers may take you to foreign lands, and perhaps even lands few people have explored.
>Botany careers may allow you to work, and possibly even live, outdoors.
>Many people with a true passion for plants and horticulture find a career in botany immensely enjoyable.
>It can be quite fulfilling to work in a career that is enjoyable and does good for society.
>Many professionals in this field get to work with some of the most advanced technology available.
There are a number of different specialties and career opportunities from which you can choose, based on your interests and skills.
Stay safe!