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Plant pathologist

Plant pathologists study plant diseases, which can involve research, diagnosis of problems and advice on treatments

Training, qualifications and skills An agricultural degree or a degree in a plant-based subject is usually required plus either experience of growing plants with a specific interest in plant health or a further degree in plant pathology
Career progression opportunities Other areas open to plant pathologists are agricultural consultancy, research posts and positions in the UK Animal and Plant Health Agency
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Focus on: Plant pathologist

Fay Newberry
RHS
Part time, salary up to £35k
RHS Garden Wisley

I work in plant diagnostics, which is a bit like being a GP for plants. I try to work out why a sick plant is unhealthy and what can be done to try and improve its condition or produce a cure.

Spend time looking at wild and garden plants, many of which suffer from diseases. Take an interest in these and try to work out what they are.

Although I received my training for this rule by studying for a PhD, many people who have been growing plants in their garden or on an allotment for a long time will also know a lot about what ails plants and what can be done to help them.

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