Famous Farming Minds: Agricultural Scientists Rewarded
Under the auspices of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Agriculture Research Service (ARS) hosts its very own Hall of Fame, with winning scientists inducted every year for their outstanding contributions to the field of agriculture.
Located in Washington D.C., selection is carried out by a peer group of agricultural scientists from ARS, related federal agencies, and academia. Only scientists eligible for retirement or already retired from ARS can be nominated, so you'll have to be in for the long haul to reach the top.
Cream of the Agricultural Science Crop
Most recently, in September 2006, three new agricultural scientists were honored with inclusion in a prestigious list that dates back to 1986, when the Hall was inaugurated. The three new names in 2006 were Wayne W. Hanna, a plant geneticist; Ray D. Jackson, a physicist; and Vernon G. Pursel, an animal physiologist.If you're interested in competing, the criteria are tough. To win inclusion in the agricultural science Hall of Fame, you must:
- have had an important influence on agricultural research
- have made contributions to agricultural science that have not only been important but that are lasting
- boast a record that inspires the next generation
Agricultural Science Degrees
If you're thinking of competing for the ultimate prize, you'll need to start off with a agricultural science degree. For basic research, a master's degree or doctoral degree is required. For college teaching and administrative research jobs, a Ph.D. degree in agricultural science is needed. Many find an online degree provides the optimal route toward qualification and employment. Online education allows you create your own schedule and fit it around an existing occupation while studying. If you are one of those curious-minded scientific types, consider exploring the advantages of a degree in agricultural science.Sources:
About the Author:
J.V. Staples is a writer and teacher living on the southeast coast of Ireland. He has worked as a graphic designer; teacher of English as a foreign language; university writing instructor; and editor of Salt Hill, a literary magazine. John holds an honors BA in English from the University of Georgia and a Masters in creative writing from Syracuse University.
