Introduction
Some 50 years ago, a very common assumption one would make when discussing jobs in agriculture was that everyone who graduated from an agriculture program would work as a farmer, literally growing plants or herding animals.
As much as we appreciate the hard work of farmers, there are many more exciting positions one can explore in agriculture, driven by advances in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
If you wonder what types of career paths are available in agriculture, here are some STEM-related careers that you can choose from:
As a Research Officer, Mr Nabeel bin Ata Abdul Muneim mostly spends his time working in the laboratory or analysing data using computers.
- I am all about analysing data, and I don’t really prefer working in the field.
This does not sound right up the alley of agriculture, but believe me, there are jobs suitable for you. Mr Nabeel bin Ata Abdul Muneim, a Research Officer in the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), is currently trying to understand the genome of the main pollinator of oil palm.
He would like to apply the knowledge gained from this research to advance the vegetable oil and fats industry ecosystem, particularly the palm oil industry in Malaysia.
He mainly works with large genomic data – this means computers, data analysis, and software – to fill gaps in plant research and tackle issues in agriculture.
When asked how STEM graduates can contribute to the agricultural field, he said that technopreneurs with ‘exceptional’ problem-solving skills are in high demand.
Other related careers that would suit data lovers include animal genomics data analyst and soil scientist.
Dr Tan Cheng Seng is sampling sweet corn leaves for genetic purity analysis.
- I do not have a degree in agriculture. Can I still land a job in this sector?
Absolutely. There are various STEM paths that you can choose when pursuing your studies. Believe me, some of these paths will lead you to agriculture.
Dr Tan Cheng Seng is a trained molecular biologist who is currently the Assistant Station Head cum Lab Manager in Green World Genetics Sdn. Bhd.
Even now, he is using biotechnological approaches, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), for quality control and marker-assisted selection in breeding programs.
In his field of work, a combination of STEM foundations is essential, including data analysis, molecular techniques, and knowledge of microbiology for pest and disease control.
He also recommends other careers that can be explored, such as post-harvest executive for seed and fresh produce, crop breeder and agronomist.
Ms Zulaikha binti Mohd Adnan is demonstrating melon self-pollination techniques.
- I am a nature lover and love being outside. Is there any position that suits me?
Almost every position in the agricultural world will be perfect for you. Particularly if you are also passionate about STEM, you can apply that knowledge across various agricultural sectors, such as plant breeding and agronomy.
As someone who loves being surrounded by nature, Ms Zulaikha binti Mohd Adnan, a colleague of Dr Tan Cheng Seng, is very content to be a melon breeder.
Not only is she responsible for producing new, high-quality hybrid melons, but she also has the chance to apply all the knowledge she has learnt, such as crop production, plant breeding, and biology, in her current job.
“It feels worth all the hard work”, shared Ms Zulaikha when asked about how she felt about her job.
As teaching researchers, lecturers undertake multiple roles to share their expertise. Dr Nadiya Akmal Baharum is explaining the histology instrument to high school students.
- I love Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics equally. What would be a good career path for me?
For those who have an equal love for STEM, there are plenty of research-driven careers that you can explore. As a researcher, Dr Nadiya Akmal Baharum, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, previously attempted to develop a genetically modified banana with improved tolerance against fungal disease.
Specialising in plant biotechnology, she emphasised that a researcher must have an inquisitive mind and strong motivation to solve agricultural challenges, utilising cutting-edge technologies such as nanobiotechnology.
According to Dr Muhammad Nur Aiman bin Uda, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Agrotechnology at Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMaP), interest in nanobiotechnology applications in agriculture is certainly growing.
Development of biosensors and synthesis of nanomaterials for plant disease detection are examples of research areas that demand highly skilled STEM graduates to work as (but not limited to) research scientists, bioengineers and mechanical engineers.
Dr Muhammad Nur Aiman bin Uda is conducting his research in his laboratory at the Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, UniMAP.
- Artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) are on the rise. Any chance I can apply these in agriculture?
Definitely yes. Farming has long been associated with manual labour. If you envision using AI and IoT to relieve the heavy burden on manual workers, you can definitely do that in agriculture.
Many potential areas can be revolutionised, such as aerial survey and imaging, crop and soil monitoring and plant disease detection.
“By integrating the fundamental knowledge in biological and chemical properties of soil and crop with the mechanical and field performance of machinery and equipment, we can witness the birth of some machinery and equipment that have been upgraded with artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) so that they can perform their duties autonomously”, said Assoc. Prof. Dr Nazmi bin Mat Nawi. The Head of the Laboratory of Plantation System Technology and Mechanisation at the Institute of Plantation Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia discussed the application of STEM in agricultural mechanisation.
The job prospects for this field are also enticing, with students able to choose to become a field engineer, mill engineer, production engineer, data scientist, or robotics or automation specialist.
Associate Professor Dr Nazmi bin Mat Nawi is sharing his expertise at Bengkel Amali Pengujian Prestasi Jentera at Kolej Vokasional (Pertanian) Teluk Intan, Perak.
- I’m all about meeting new people and talking about Science. I doubt I can find a job in this field.
By now, you are probably aware that people in agriculture usually do not work in silo. There are many different professions at various stages that closely interact with farmers, and thus need to communicate using the ‘same language’ to promote mutual understanding.
Hence, here comes the role of a Science Communicator who acts as a bridge between the farmers and other professionals from both agricultural- or non-agricultural based background.
As a Science Communicator, Ts. Dr Umaiyal Munusamy assists in communicating with farmers on new technology and inventions in layman’s terms. Her background in Plant Biotechnology is also a huge bonus point for her.
Dr Umaiyal, who is currently a Science and Technology business program producer in an international and industrial-based company that produces high-end and sector-focused business events, summits, and conferences, also applies her research, writing, communication and collaboration skills to produce top-notch Science and Technology-based programs, including plant science, agriculture and technologies.
Ts Dr Umaiyal Munusamy was presenting on ‘How to Break the Wall of Food Insecurity’ at the Falling Wall Lab in Berlin.
Conclusion
Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, love being out in the field or working from the comfort of your office, linked to academia, an industry, or a research institute, the career opportunities for STEM graduates in the agriculture sector are endless. As diverse as the selections seem to be, all of them share a common goal, which is to ensure the sustainability of high-quality food and feed for both the human and animal populations. Is it not satisfying to have a career that suits your passion and at the same time contributes to a better world?
Note: The author is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia.
