Our water supply is, well, less than infinite—and hydrologists are our go-to scientists and activists for conserving it. Their passion for protecting this limited resource, combined with their deep understanding of how water circulates above- and underground, paves the way for more innovative solutions to the evolving environmental, agricultural and societal needs. But it’s not just about water conversation; hydrologists help humans adapt to its unpredictability for a more harmonious coexistence.
Laboratory technicians are the driving force behind cohesive lab operations—ensuring every aspect of a project is carried through with consistency, safety and accuracy. These professionals serve as the right-hand person to their scientific colleagues—assisting them with a variety of tasks within collection, sampling and experimentation.
Market research analysts are facts-first people. Using data from the research they gather, they can make or break the case for any cause—such as food security and public health. With their ability to create compelling arguments and presentations, they strategize for a more sustainable, efficient future, every day.
From beautiful rainbows to disastrous hurricanes, weather is a powerful force that greatly affects agriculture. Extreme weather conditions can negatively affect crop yield, increase the threat of pests and diseases and livestock production. By studying the earth’s atmosphere and predicting weather patterns, meteorologists help farmers and ranchers to understand, plan, and predict impactful conditions.
No detail is too small for a microbiologist; they’re experts on microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and algae. But they don’t stop at the nitty gritty—they take their knowledge of these microscopic creatures to see the bigger picture. With this greater understanding, microbiologists can change the world.
Ever wondered how DNA was discovered? That was the work of a molecular and cellular biologist! These scientists study cells’ interaction and their diverse functionality to discover what fuels and sustains life. Their research is applied across many areas—including genetically engineering new crops, applying DNA-based technology for animal breeding, addressing environmental health and so much more.
A plant biologist knows plants and their life cycle better than they know themselves. They use that knowledge to maximize, protect and manage crops and agricultural plants and trees. Starting from the root—literally, with expertise in soil and pests—plant biologists research the perfect conditions for plants to thrive in. Because of their research, farmers make the most of their yearly crop to feed the world.
Plant pathologists evaluate plant species from both a micro and macro level to determine pathogens affecting the life and production of the plant. This career is vital for the innovation of plant growth and production practices that protect individual plants and are environmental safe and effective.
The average grocery store carries over 47,000 products – that’s a lot of food and a lot of choices for shoppers. Production Food Development Specialists are responsible for creating new food strategies and products that will appeal to consumers. They oversee the entire product development process, from conducting market research and trends, to product testing, packaging and marketing. They are innovators and team players, collaborating across many cross-functional teams and groups.
Not all formulas are created equal—formulation requires a blend of both art and science. Formulation chemists study substances that do not react with each other—but have advantageous effects as a mixture; examples include pesticides, fertilizers, paints, cosmetics, etc. These scientists are curious about not only how a formula can be improved chemically, but how it can better serve both farmers’ and consumers’ evolving needs.
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