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Botany is one of the most crucial subjects in science stream. Botany is extensive scientific study of plants along with their structures, growth, use, and process of all forms of plant life. Botany also refers to the study of the evolution, ageing, decaying and demise of plants. Environment of these plants is also covered under botany. As the name suggests, a botanist is someone who deals with the study of Botany. Botanists specialize in different subjects. For instance, if one botanist specializes in identification and classification of plants then other can master subjects such as ferns, mosses, flowering plants, algae, conifers, fungi and lichens etc. Botanists cover all aspect of a plant’s life. Right from, the biochemistry of plant processes, geological record of plants and structure of plant parts to plant diseases and roles of plants in our environment, they study it all.
The fact that all the food, people and animals eat emerges from plants, makes botany a very vital subject. It is the job of botanists to examine all types of plant species. Botany demands extensive research and dedication from these professionals. They use advanced scientific tools and different methods to study the structure and growth of these plants. Botanists can be segregated into different categories depending upon their subject areas. For example, agronomists are the ones that study agricultural crops whereas marine botanists are those who study ocean plants. The role of botanists is very crucial in discovering new facts about plants. The work of botanists helps humans in discovering new treatments for diseases or in producing better yields.
To become a botanist, one will require having a master’s degree but most of the employers prefer a doctorate degree in botany, biology, or other related field. Course curriculum covers subjects like English, biology, physics, chemistry, and a variety of botany courses. Research is very important in the career of a botanist. This is a constantly evolving field that demands regular study and courses in plant science.
Focus on bio-technical development and research will lead to better job opportunities for qualified botanists. Those with a passion for studying plants can opt for this wonderful career.
In India, one can pursue botany at graduation level. Several colleges and universities in India offer B.Sc Botany. Those studying Biology stream at 10+2 level also have to study botany as one of the subjects. Additionally, one can opt for postgraduate and doctorate level study in this field. To pursue a career in botany at postgraduate level, one must have completed his bachelor’s in the same subject.
Because of the burgeoning environmental issues, the scope of botany has widened. This field offers good career opportunities like biological technician. If one has completed his post graduate degree in this subject, then he can work as a teacher or can handle research work in any prominent University or biology laboratories. Apart from that, some of the other career choices are taxonomist, environmental consultant, ecologist, plant explorers, conservationists, Horticulturist, molecular biologist, plant biochemist or Farming consultant etc. Botanists can find suitable jobs in India as well as abroad where there is tremendous demand for qualified botanists.
Some of the Indian institutes offering courses in botany are:-
Delhi University's colleges
St. Xavier`s College (Mumbai),
Jiwaji University (Gwalior),
Maharaja's College Kochi (Kerala)
University of Mumbai
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