What is Plant Pathology?
Plant Pathology embraces an understanding of the dynamic processes
involved in plant health. It is a cutting edge science which
brings together knowledge from other scientific disciplines such as
microbiology, botany, genetics, biochemistry, entomology,
bioinformatics, statistics, agronomy, soil science, etc.
What is a Plant Pathologist?
A plant pathologist is a scientist with a strong interest in plant sciences who studies:
* the causal agents of plant disease
* their effects on plant growth, yield and/or quality
* interactions between plant parasites, their host plants and the environment
* the integration of disease management strategies to prevent and minimize plant diseases
What does a Plant Pathologist do?
As a research orientated individual whose work environment varies
between the laboratory, greenhouse, field and office, a plant
pathologist has the advantage of incorporating considerable diversity
into his/her daily tasks. Research involves the initiation,
design and conducting of experiments, as well as analyses,
interpretation and publication of the results. In Plant
Pathology, the field of research may vary between the health of
traditional or alternative agricultural crops, ornamental plants,
indigenous flora, forest trees or turf grass.
Where do Plant Pathologists work?
In South Africa, plant pathologists are employed by private (e.g. seed
or chemical companies) or public institutions relating to agriculture,
horticulture, forestry, seed production or pesticide development.
How can I become a Plant Pathologist?
By studying specific Plant Pathology curricula offered in the Centre
for Plant Health Management, Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of
Natural and Agricultural Sciences, at the UFS. To equip students
with a wider background, Plant Pathology may be combined as major with
Entomology, Plant Breeding, Soil Science, Agronomy or Agrometeorology.
What qualifications in Plant Pathology are available at the UFS?
B.Sc. (Plant Health) (3 yrs)
B.Sc. Agric ( 4yrs)
B.Sc. Honours
B. Sc. Agric Honours (1 yr - optional)
M.Sc.
M.Sc. Agric
Ph.D. |
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