Career Opportunities
MSc/Diploma in Crop Improvement
Careers and Destinations
Focusing upon the understanding of plant to crop systems, and with an emphasis on research training, the course is ideally suited to those wishing to pursue careers in research institutes, plant breeding, agro-industry and advance to higher research degree (PhD) study. MSc graduates have previously gone on to careers ranging from agronomist to PhD research student.
Some example careers include:
• Crop Scientist within the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) – Africa
• Crop Trials Research Manager
• PhD Research Student (both at Nottingham and other Universities)
• Research posts in Government Agriculture Departments
• Agronomist
• Technical and sales positions in the Agro-Food Industry
MSc in Crop Improvement is a new course. Comments from students graduating in 2006:
"The year I spent at Nottingham has been one of my most successful years in terms of knowledge, skills and making good contacts. I use the research and writing skills acquired during the MSc in Crop Improvement to prepare my talks and discussions and also to facilitate training sessions."
Jean-Claude Rubyogo
“The MSc in Crop Improvement covered every conceivable method of improving crop production. The laboratory classes were invaluable, introducing the numerous techniques available. The academic staff were always available to answer specific questions on their lectures.”
Charmaine Mendez
MSc in Plant Genetic Manipulation
Careers and Destinations
Completion of this Masters programme which attracts home and international students leads to a wide range of career and employment opportunities. A majority of graduates of this course establish career pathways in biotechnology and agro-industry. Graduates are also equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to begin doctoral research with 50% of all graduates, with their MSc degree in Plant Genetic Manipulation, going on to funded PhD research at the University of Nottingham or elsewhere. Others, through choice, establish careers beyond higher education and directly in the workplace.
Some example careers include:
• PhD Degree Programmes (UK and abroad) for half of all of MSc Plant Genetic Manipulation graduates since 1994-5
• Research Assistants in several leading Research Institutes
• Research Assistants employed in Biotechnology Companies and Agricultural (Commercial) Industries
• Experimental Officer Posts
• Lecturer/Teacher Positions
• Research Technicians/Laboratory Officers
• Government Field Trials Officer-Safety Standards
• Data Management (Pharmaceuticals)/Data Handling
• Administration Positions