Plant Science Career Roadmap

Program overview

Plant scientists sustain and improve our world as they work in careers connected to foods, fibers, fuels, pharmaceuticals, managed landscapes, and native ecosystems. Students study biology, genetics and biotechnology, ecology, physiology, pests and diseases, and sustainable agriculture. They develop an interdisciplinary perspective on plant science and its applications for managing plants in human and natural systems.

Learn about yourself & Career Options

General Skills & Knowledge

Work in this industry requires knowledge in environmental and biological sciences, keen observation of change and patterns, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, the ability to prioritize and organize projects, and enthusiasm to learn new techniques and ideas.

Sample Job Titles:

  • Restoration Ecologist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Sustainable Crop Producer
  • Organic Inspector and Certifier
  • Plant Breeder
  • Crop Geneticist
  • Greenhouse and Farm Coordinator
  • Public Gardens Designer
  • Sports Turf Manager
  • Agricultural Extension Agent

Bright Outlook

Above average growth expected for Environmental Restoration Planners, Precision Agriculture Technicians, and Soil and Plant Scientists.

Build Experience & Connections

  • Environmental Horticulture Club
  • Plant Science Council
  • UF Native Plant Nursery
  • Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences
  • Field & Fork Campus Food Program
  • Natural Resources Diversity Initiative
  • Ethnoecology Society
  • Entomology Club
  • Organic and Sustainable Agriculture Club

For more information, check out GatorConnect.

Mentoring is a key tool for academic success! Students will meet with Dr. Liebowitz during their first semester to explore their interests, and during that conversation, we’ll match you with a Faculty Mentor with similar interests. If your spark takes a new turn during your journey, we can chat about finding you a new match!

Meet with your faculty mentor at least once a semester for guidance and support on:

  • Course electives
  • Scholarships
  • Professional societies and clubs
  • Internship opportunities
  • Capstone project idea development
  • Professional experience in research, teaching, and extension
  • Career or graduate school brainstorms

For more information, visit the Faculty Mentors page.

Read up on what faculty are working on and talk with them about potential opportunities to get involved in research.

The Center for Undergraduate Resources (CUR) resources for students include the UF Research Database, the CUR Canvas where opportunities are shared, and peer advising.

Your academic advisor is another great resource. In CALS, each major has a dedicated academic advisor who can discuss research opportunities with faculty in the department or across the university.

UF/IFAS Research Internship – The Florida Agricultural Experiment Station (FAES), part of UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), leads research in agriculture, human, and natural resources. With over 450 active projects, students can participate in these projects through paid summer internships or year-round volunteer opportunities, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Learn more about CALS research opportunities.

Prepare for Next Steps

Sample Employers Recruiting at UF

  • FL Dept. of Environmental Protection
  • Montana Conservation Corps
  • Yellowstone Landscape
  • US Dept. of Agriculture
  • Costa Farms
  • Land O’Lakes Inc.

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