Soil Scientist

The scientist who studies the soil and the information related to it for understanding its resources is called a Soil Scientist. He examines the few top layers of the Earth’s crust to understand its physical and chemical properties; distribution, origin and morphology; and biological components. He needs to be strong in physics, biological science, and mathematics. One should have university degree in Soil Science or agriculture, earth science, etc and additionally he should have knowledge on soil forming factors, and soil morphology, soil physics, soil chemistry, and soil biology, and the dynamic interaction of these areas. Soil Scientists are responsible for evaluating soil conditions and help farmers, builders, and environmentalists decide how the advantage can be taken of local soils.

Key to Success

To be successful as a Soil Scientist you should have/ develop:

Keen observation
Adaptability to new techniques
Critical Thinking

Scope and opportunities

Soil Scientists who work for the federal government directs soil estimation, classifying and mapping soils. Regular information and recommendations are given to farmers and other landowners of taking full advantage of land, and plants to avoid or to solve problems, such as erosion. A soil scientist collects soil data, consults, and investigates evaluates interprets, planning or inspection relating to soil science. One has opportunities in the research related to the resources and based on this research one has make recommendations.

Lifestyle & Social Status

Indoor as well as outdoor
Dirty the hands in soil
Gathering samples
Working in the farms in all weather conditions

Job Profile

Agricultural Soil Scientist: Main area of focus is on the framing conditions of the soil. They work as farm advisors, crop consultants, or representatives of agricultural companies.
Environmental Soil Scientist: These soil scientists focus on the soil’s function for a healthy environment. They often work in environmental positions dealing with the quality of water, treatments of contamination, or for on-site evaluation of soil properties in construction, waste disposal, or recreational facilities.

Skill sets

Innovation
Research skills
Science skills – Chemistry, Biology
Mathematical skills

Work Value

Challenging
Autonomy
Work with his (or her) hands

Current Job Scenario

The salary varies according to the research fellowship offered by the university. After clearing the NET/SET one gets high JRF but if one does not crack the NET/SET the salary varies from Rs.12,000/- to Rs. 14,000/-PM.

Top Recruiters

Research

Agriculture institutes

NGO’s

Course Synopsis

Course Options	B.Sc. (Agriculture)	B.Tech Agriculture	M.Sc -Soil Science
Academic Eligibility	10+2 with biology, maths and chemistry	10+2 with biology, maths and chemistry	50% aggregate marks in B.Sc. Agriculture
Fees	Rs. 20K to Rs. 30K per annum	Rs. 40K to Rs. 50K	Rs. 25K to Rs. 35K
Expenditure in Metro and Tier-1	Rs. 2 Lakhs to Rs. 2.5 Lakhs	Rs. 2 Lakhs to Rs. 2.5 Lakhs	Rs. 2 Lakhs to Rs. 2.5 Lakhs
Expenditure in Tier-2	Rs. 1.25 – Rs. 1.75 Lakhs	Rs. 1.25 – Rs. 1.75 Lakhs	Rs. 1.25 – Rs. 1.75 Lakhs
Duration	3/4 Years	4 Years	2 Years
Mode	Regular	Regular	Regular
Specialization	Soil Science	Soil Science	Soil Science
Approved	UGC	UGC	UGC
Affiliation	Respective University	Respective University	Respective University
Entrance Exam		Yes
Education Loan
Scholarships