Bioenergy Career Map: Senior Plant Scientist

• Deep, interdisciplinary knowledge of field crop production or management, soil and crop management, plant breeding and development, weed and pest control, plant physiology, and plant pathology demonstrated through high ranking publications and assignments
• Possesses firm understanding of fundamental basis of next-gen DNA sequencing technologies computer programing and automation
• Proficiency using the statistical packages, experience with spatial statistical methods, and proficiency with commercial geographic information system (GIS) software
• Demonstrated experience with field data collection, data review, and preparation of technical documents 
• Ability to organize, analyze, interpret, and evaluate scientific data
• Excellent technical writing, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Management experience, including performance management, training, supervision, and leadership.

The United States has the potential to sustainably produce over 1 billion tons of biomass annually for renewable fuels, power, and products. Much of this biomass will come from dedicated energy crops—non-food crops that can be grown on land not suitable for traditional crops, specifically to provide biomass—and other agricultural resources. Improvements in crop yield and productivity as well as reductions in fertilizer and pesticide requirements will help the industry realize this vast potential. With knowledge of biology, genetics, entomology, and soil science, plant scientists are uniquely qualified to help develop and enhance bioenergy crop systems, while protecting the nation’s natural resources.

Plant scientists conduct research on energy crop breeding, physiology, production, and yield. They also study different crop management techniques in order to discern the best ways to plant, harvest, and cultivate the plants as well as develop methods to control weeds and pests to keep crops disease-free. Their ultimate goal is to work scientifically to produce the finest crops for use in bioenergy production systems, on a consistent basis.