What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of biology 
• maths knowledge 
• complex problem-solving skills
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses 
• excellent verbal communication skills 
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail 
• analytical thinking skills 
• ambition and a desire to succeed 
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
  

How to become Botanist

You can get into this job through

University

You'll usually need a degree in a subject like: 

• botany 
• ecology 
• environmental science 
• plant biology 
• plant science 

Volunteering

It may be helpful if you volunteer with a relevant organisation, like the the Royal Horticultural Society and the Field Studies Council, before you apply for your first job. 

What you’ll do

Day-to-day tasks

You could specialise in:

• the study of specific plant groups 
• molecular biology 
• genetics 
• ecology 
• marine botany 
• taxonomy - the identification and classification of plants 

Your work will vary depending on your role, but you could:

• identify, classify, record and monitor plant species and biodiversity 
• conduct fieldwork to collect, test and record findings 
• take part in ecological consultancy work, including environmental impact assessments 
• manage a botanical collection 
• work in conservation projects 
• search for new species 
• present research results in journals, books and at academic conferences
• train and supervise junior staff and volunteers 
• teach at a university
  

Working environment

You could work at a university, at a research facility or in a laboratory. Your working environment may be outdoors some of the time and you'll travel often.