General Overview:

Studies the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and ecology of plants.

Tasks Include:

• investigates the effects of environmental factors such as rainfall, temperature, sunlight, soil, topography and disease on plant growth
• grows plants under controlled conditions to determine optimum environmental factors, assess the significance of environmental and genetic variables, and examine patterns of plant evolution
• studies the nature and occurrence of plant chromosomes, cells and tissues
• makes field and laboratory studies of plant groups to compile and revise natural classifications
• prepares or supervises the preparation of laboratory reports and scientific papers
• may prepare handbooks for identification of plants
• may supervise and coordinate the work of technical officers and technicians
• may search for, identify and classify new species of plants
• may work with other scientists to develop drugs, medicines and other products from plants