Soil Saviour
If you have a passion for knowing more about the soil and want to seek answers to problems relating to the environment, then a career as a Soil Scientist will be apt for you
Soil Science plays an important role in the life of a human being. It is not only the resource for food production, but it also helps us on waste disposal, to maintain playgrounds, to distribute and store water and nutrients, and support our environment.
What does a Soil Scientist do?
A soil scientist is a person who is qualified to evaluate and interpret soils and soil-related data to provide information about its quality and structure. Information about the composition of soil is required to assist with planning and surveying for land development purposes; to assess the effect of agrochemicals used in farming; to aid land restoration and reclamation projects; to gauge drainage and irrigation requirements; or to investigate environmental, climatic and pollution issues.
What attributes will you require?
Aspiring soil scientists usually have a passion for nature and are enthusiastic about working outdoors. They should also have the willingness to communicate their knowledge to others, a hunger to learn and seek answers to problems relating to the environment. Since soil scientists often serve as consultants for landowners, farmers, and environmentalists, it is crucial that they have excellent communication skills – both written and oral.
He/she must also possess good observation and concentration skills to be capable to examine and verify the properties of different soils. Physical fitness is also a prerequisite because of the manual work that is involved. Many soils are very complicated and a soil scientist must analyse diverse locations before plantation. Therefore, they must be willing to face various challenges and adapt to different working conditions.
What are the qualifications required?
A four-year bachelor’s degree in soil science, either environmental or agricultural science is necessary to qualify. Students interested in pursuing a career in soil science should have a strong background in subjects like mathematics and science in high school. Some employers favour a master’s degree or a doctorate from an agricultural university. Those who wish to teach at universities and colleges or conduct research will need to obtain a PhD degree. In addition to formal education, internships can be very important in securing good positions because they provide on-the-job training.
What is the scope of work?
Soil science is a relatively small field and the demand for soil scientists is anticipated to grow in the coming years, given the government’s initiatives. That being said, a significant number of soil scientists with advanced training and strong educational backgrounds will be required to improve the quality of farm soil. In addition, they will also be needed to help urban and regional development as well as for ecological preservation. Therefore, employment opportunities for highly educated and trained scientists will continue to be plentiful.
What are the opportunities available?
Soil scientists usually begin as helpers or subordinates to senior soil scientists. Those who gain enough experience or perform exceptionally are generally promoted to more advanced positions with greater responsibilities, such as project heads or supervisors. Positions in management are secured by those who have a graduate degree or an MBA.
Institutes offering courses in Soil Science
- Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology of Kashmir
- Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
- Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour
- AKS University, MP
- Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar
- Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
-Team ScienceNow Digital
