Crop Scientist
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Crop Scientist: A Comprehensive Career Guide
Crop science is a vital branch of agricultural science focused on improving the quality and quantity of crops used for food, fuel, and fiber. It integrates principles from various disciplines like biology, genetics, chemistry, and environmental science to understand how plants grow and how to optimize their production sustainably. Crop scientists work to develop hardier, more nutritious, and higher-yielding plant varieties, manage pests and diseases effectively, and improve soil health and resource use efficiency. It's a field dedicated to finding scientific solutions to the complex challenges of feeding a growing global population while protecting our planet.
Working as a crop scientist can be deeply engaging. You might find yourself pioneering new plant breeding techniques in a lab, developing strategies to combat devastating crop diseases in the field, or using cutting-edge technology like drones and sensors to monitor vast farmlands. The potential to make a tangible impact on global food security, contribute to environmental sustainability, and be at the forefront of agricultural innovation makes this career path particularly exciting for those passionate about science and its real-world applications.
The Role and Responsibilities of a Crop Scientist
Crop science is a broad field encompassing several specialized areas. Understanding these sub-disciplines can help clarify the diverse roles a crop scientist might undertake.
Diverse Specializations within Crop Science
Crop scientists often specialize in areas like plant genetics and breeding, focusing on developing new crop varieties with desirable traits such as drought tolerance or enhanced nutritional value. Others specialize in soil science, studying soil composition and health to optimize nutrient management and conservation practices. Pest management specialists devise strategies to control insects, weeds, and diseases affecting crops, often integrating biological and chemical methods. These are just a few examples; the field also includes experts in plant physiology, agroecology, and more.
Each specialization requires a unique blend of knowledge and skills but shares the common goal of improving crop production and sustainability. Whether manipulating genes in a lab or analyzing soil samples in the field, the work contributes directly to agricultural advancement.
The interdisciplinary nature means crop scientists often collaborate across these specializations. A plant breeder might work with a soil scientist to ensure a new variety thrives in specific soil conditions, or with a pest management expert to incorporate natural resistance.
These books provide foundational knowledge relevant across various crop science specializations, covering soil health and plant growth principles.
A Day in the Life: Research vs. Applied Settings
The daily activities of a crop scientist can vary significantly depending on whether they work in a research-focused or applied setting. Researchers, often based at universities, government agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), or private R&D labs, might spend their days designing experiments, analyzing data, writing research papers, and seeking grant funding.
In contrast, crop scientists in applied roles, such as agronomists or consultants working for agricultural companies or directly with farmers, spend more time in the field. Their tasks might involve diagnosing crop problems, recommending soil treatments, advising on planting strategies, monitoring crop health, and implementing new technologies on farms.
While research roles often demand advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.), applied positions might be accessible with a Bachelor's degree, particularly with relevant field experience. Both paths offer opportunities to contribute significantly to agricultural productivity and innovation, just through different activities and environments.
Impacting Agriculture and Collaborating Across Sectors
Crop scientists are central figures in driving agricultural productivity and innovation. Their research leads to improved crop varieties, more efficient farming techniques, and sustainable practices that help farmers produce more with less environmental impact. They play a crucial role in developing solutions to challenges like climate change adaptation, pest resistance, and resource scarcity.
Effective crop science requires extensive collaboration. Scientists frequently work alongside farmers to test and implement new practices. They interact with policymakers to inform agricultural regulations and support programs. Partnerships with biotechnology firms are also common, translating laboratory discoveries into commercially viable products like improved seeds or targeted pesticides.
This collaborative ecosystem ensures that scientific advancements are relevant, practical, and effectively disseminated throughout the agricultural sector. Strong communication skills are therefore essential for crop scientists to share their findings and work effectively with diverse groups.
Formal Education Pathways to Becoming a Crop Scientist
Embarking on a career as a crop scientist typically begins with formal education, establishing a strong scientific foundation. The specific path can vary, but certain degrees and coursework are fundamental.
Undergraduate Foundations
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for many roles in crop science. Common majors include Agronomy, Plant Science, Biology, Horticulture, or Soil Science. These programs provide essential knowledge in core areas required for the profession.
Undergraduate curricula usually cover fundamental sciences like biology, chemistry, and physics, alongside specialized agricultural courses. Students learn about plant physiology, genetics, soil management, pest control, and crop production techniques. Mathematics and statistics are also crucial for data analysis.
Many universities, particularly land-grant institutions, offer robust agricultural science programs. While specific university names aren't listed here, prospective students should look for programs with strong faculty research, good laboratory facilities, and opportunities for hands-on experience.
Consider these related career paths which often share similar educational foundations:
Graduate Studies and Specialization
While a bachelor's degree can open doors to entry-level positions, particularly in applied roles, many crop scientists pursue advanced degrees. A Master's (M.S.) or Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree is often necessary for research positions, university teaching, and leadership roles in industry or government.
Graduate programs allow for deep specialization in areas like plant breeding and genetics, biotechnology, plant pathology (disease study), entomology (insect study), soil chemistry, or weed science. Research is a central component, culminating in a thesis (M.S.) or dissertation (Ph.D.) based on original experimental work.
Choosing a graduate program involves considering faculty expertise aligned with your interests, available research funding, and laboratory resources. Networking at scientific conferences and reading current research can help identify leading programs and potential advisors.
These books delve into specialized areas often explored in graduate studies, such as genetics, breeding, and nutrient efficiency.
Essential Coursework and Practical Experience
Regardless of the degree level, certain subjects form the backbone of a crop scientist's education. Core coursework typically includes genetics, biochemistry, plant physiology, soil science, statistics, and data analysis. Depending on specialization, studies might also heavily feature entomology, plant pathology, horticulture, or agricultural economics.
Beyond coursework, practical experience is invaluable. Internships, co-op programs, or summer jobs with agricultural companies, research institutions, or government agencies provide real-world exposure. Working in university labs or on research farms also builds essential hands-on skills.
This practical experience not only reinforces academic learning but also helps students clarify career interests, build professional networks, and strengthen their resumes for future job searches or graduate school applications. Many employers actively seek candidates with demonstrated practical abilities.
Online and Independent Learning Opportunities
While formal degrees are the traditional route, online learning and independent study offer valuable pathways to gain knowledge and skills relevant to crop science, whether for foundational learning, supplementing formal education, or professional development.
Supplementing Education with Online Resources
Online courses can effectively supplement traditional degree programs or provide foundational knowledge for those exploring the field or considering a career pivot. Platforms like OpenCourser aggregate courses from various providers, covering topics from basic plant biology to advanced subjects like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or sustainable agriculture practices.
These resources allow learners to study specific topics at their own pace, fill knowledge gaps, or explore emerging areas not covered in their formal curriculum. For working professionals, online courses offer a flexible way to stay updated on the latest advancements and acquire new skills relevant to their current roles.
Finding the right resources is key. OpenCourser makes it easy to search thousands of courses and books, compare syllabi, read reviews, and even find deals, helping learners tailor their independent study effectively. The Agriculture browse page is a great starting point.
These online courses cover crucial topics in modern agriculture, including sustainability, resource management, and technology integration, suitable for independent learners.
Key Topics for Self-Directed Study
Certain areas within crop science lend themselves well to online or independent learning. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing, used for mapping fields and monitoring crop health, often have dedicated online courses teaching software and analysis techniques. Crop modeling, which uses data to predict yields and growth patterns, is another area where online resources can be beneficial.
Understanding data analysis and basic statistics is fundamental, and numerous online courses teach these skills using relevant agricultural examples. Topics like integrated pest management, soil health principles, and sustainable farming practices are also widely covered in online formats, providing accessible knowledge for aspiring or practicing crop scientists.
Furthermore, learning about specific technologies like drone applications in agriculture or the principles behind precision farming equipment can often be achieved through targeted online modules or tutorials offered by universities or technology providers.
These courses offer insights into specific technologies and practices increasingly important in modern crop science, like nitrogen management, drone usage, and digital agriculture.
Building Skills Through Projects and Certifications
Supplementing online coursework with practical projects is crucial for skill development. Learners could start a small garden project applying soil management principles, use publicly available satellite data to analyze land use changes, or build simple spreadsheets to model hypothetical crop yields under different conditions.
While formal degrees remain the primary credential for many crop science roles, particularly in research, specialized certifications can demonstrate expertise in specific areas like Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) or specific software (e.g., GIS). However, it's important to research whether a certification holds significant weight for desired career paths compared to degree requirements.
For career changers or those building foundational knowledge, a portfolio of projects demonstrating practical skills learned through online courses can be a valuable asset when applying for entry-level positions or internships. It shows initiative and the ability to apply learned concepts.
Career Progression for Crop Scientists
A career in crop science offers diverse pathways for growth, from initial entry-level roles to positions of significant leadership and influence. Understanding this trajectory can help in planning your career development.
Starting Your Career: Entry-Level Roles
Graduates with a bachelor's degree often begin their careers in roles such as field technicians, research assistants, or technical sales representatives. Field technicians might collect soil and plant samples, monitor experiments, or assist farmers with implementing specific practices. Research assistants typically work in labs or greenhouses, supporting senior scientists with experiments, data collection, and analysis.
Technical sales roles involve representing agricultural companies (e.g., seed, fertilizer, pesticide providers), advising farmers on product use, and maintaining customer relationships. These entry-level positions provide valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the practical aspects of agriculture and crop management.
Early career roles often involve significant fieldwork or lab work, providing a strong foundation in the day-to-day realities of crop production and research. Gaining experience in these roles is crucial for future advancement.
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Advancing Your Career: Mid-Level Opportunities
With experience and often further education (like a Master's degree), crop scientists can advance to mid-career roles. These might include positions like lead researcher, project manager, agronomy consultant, or plant breeder. Lead researchers design and oversee research projects, manage small teams, and contribute to scientific publications.
Agronomy consultants provide expert advice to farmers or agricultural businesses on optimizing crop production, managing pests, and improving soil health. Plant breeders work on developing new crop varieties through conventional breeding or biotechnology techniques. These roles typically involve more responsibility, strategic planning, and often supervision of junior staff.
Mid-career professionals often specialize further within their chosen area, becoming recognized experts. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for success at this stage.
These books cover topics relevant to mid-career specialization, including advanced genetics and specific agricultural concepts.
Reaching the Top: Leadership and Influence
Senior-level positions in crop science often require extensive experience and typically a Ph.D. These roles can include R&D Directors in private companies, university professors leading major research programs, senior policy advisors in government agencies, or leaders within international agricultural organizations.
At this level, responsibilities shift towards setting research strategy, managing large teams and budgets, influencing agricultural policy, mentoring junior scientists, and representing their organization at national or international forums. Leadership, strategic vision, and strong communication abilities are paramount.
Some experienced crop scientists also pursue entrepreneurial paths, starting their own consulting firms or agritech companies based on innovative research or technology developed during their careers.
Salary Expectations and Job Outlook
Salaries for crop scientists vary based on education level, experience, specific role, employer type (academia, government, private industry), and geographic location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for agricultural and food scientists was $76,400 in May 2023. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while senior researchers and leaders can earn significantly more, with the top 10 percent earning over $129,560.
The BLS projects employment for agricultural and food scientists to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by the ongoing need for research to improve agricultural productivity, address food security challenges, adapt to climate change, and develop sustainable farming practices.
Demand is expected to remain strong globally, particularly for scientists with expertise in areas like biotechnology, data science applied to agriculture (precision agriculture), and sustainable production systems. Opportunities exist across diverse sectors, ensuring a relatively stable and promising career outlook.
Industry Applications and Sectors
Crop scientists find employment across a wide range of sectors, each offering unique challenges and opportunities to apply their expertise.
Roles in the Private Sector
The private sector is a major employer of crop scientists. Large multinational corporations involved in seed production, agrochemicals (pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers), and biotechnology heavily invest in research and development (R&D). Scientists here work on developing improved crop varieties, creating new crop protection products, and testing product efficacy.
Smaller companies, consulting firms, and agricultural cooperatives also hire crop scientists. Roles can range from field agronomists advising farmers, to lab researchers, to specialists in data analysis for precision agriculture services. The focus is often on developing and marketing products or services that enhance farm productivity and profitability.
Working in the private sector often involves a faster pace and a direct link between research and commercial application. Opportunities exist in R&D, technical support, sales, marketing, and management.
Government and Non-Profit Opportunities
Government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels employ crop scientists. Organizations like the USDA conduct research, manage conservation programs, provide extension services to farmers, and regulate agricultural practices. Scientists in these roles might focus on basic research, policy development, or educational outreach.
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international bodies (like the UN Food and Agriculture Organization) also hire crop scientists, particularly those focused on sustainable agriculture, food security in developing nations, and environmental conservation. Work in this sector often involves collaborating on projects aimed at improving livelihoods and promoting sustainable practices globally.
These roles often emphasize public good, long-term research goals, or development work, offering a different focus compared to the commercial drivers of the private sector.
This book examines agricultural economics, a key consideration in government and NGO roles focusing on policy and development.
Emerging Markets: Vertical Farming and Bioengineering
New frontiers in agriculture are creating exciting opportunities. Vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) represent a growing sector focused on growing crops indoors, often in urban settings, using technologies like hydroponics and LED lighting. Crop scientists are needed to optimize growing conditions, select appropriate crop varieties, and manage plant health in these unique systems.
Advances in bioengineering, particularly gene editing technologies like CRISPR, are also transforming crop science. Companies in this space hire scientists to develop crops with precisely engineered traits, such as enhanced nutritional content, longer shelf life, or resistance to specific stresses. This area requires strong molecular biology and genetics expertise.
These emerging markets offer dynamic environments for crop scientists interested in cutting-edge technology and novel production systems aimed at addressing sustainability and food supply challenges.
Emerging Trends Shaping Crop Science
The field of crop science is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, environmental pressures, and changing societal demands. Staying abreast of these trends is crucial for professionals in the field.
Climate-Resilient Crop Development
Climate change presents significant challenges to agriculture, including shifting weather patterns, increased frequency of extreme events (droughts, floods), and new pest pressures. A major trend is the development of climate-resilient crops – varieties that can better withstand these stresses.
Crop scientists use advanced breeding techniques, including genetic modification and marker-assisted selection, to identify and incorporate traits for heat tolerance, drought resistance, and tolerance to waterlogging or salinity. This research is vital for ensuring food security in a changing climate.
Understanding plant physiology under stress conditions and the genetic basis of resilience are key areas of focus. The goal is to create crops that can maintain stable yields even under less predictable and more challenging environmental conditions.
This course explores the challenge of nitrogen use, a key factor in both productivity and environmental impact, relevant to sustainable and resilient agriculture.
Precision Agriculture Technologies
Precision agriculture involves using technology to manage variations within fields more precisely, optimizing resource use (water, fertilizer, pesticides) and improving yields. Key technologies include GPS-guided tractors, sensors monitoring soil conditions and crop health, drones for aerial imagery, and data analytics platforms.
Crop scientists play a role in developing, validating, and implementing these technologies. They help interpret data from sensors and imagery to make informed management decisions, such as variable-rate application of inputs only where needed. The global precision farming market is experiencing significant growth, expected to reach tens of billions of dollars within the next decade, indicating widespread adoption.
This trend requires crop scientists to be comfortable with data analysis, GIS software, and understanding how various technologies integrate to improve farm management. It represents a shift towards more data-driven and efficient farming.
These courses provide insights into using technology, including drones and IoT, for more precise and efficient farming practices.
CRISPR and Gene Editing Advancements
Gene editing technologies, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, have revolutionized plant breeding. These tools allow scientists to make precise modifications to a plant's DNA far more quickly and accurately than previous methods. This accelerates the development of crops with desired traits.
Applications include enhancing nutritional value (e.g., higher vitamin content), improving disease resistance, increasing yield potential, and adapting crops to specific environments. Research is rapidly advancing, exploring more complex edits and applying the technology to a wider range of crop species.
While powerful, gene editing also sparks ethical debates and faces varying regulatory landscapes globally. Crop scientists working in this area must navigate both the scientific complexities and the societal discussions surrounding the technology.
Ethical Considerations and GMO Adoption
The development and adoption of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), including those created through newer gene-editing techniques, continue to be subjects of public and ethical debate. Concerns often revolve around potential environmental impacts, food safety, and corporate control over the food supply.
Crop scientists are involved in assessing the safety and environmental effects of GMOs, contributing data to regulatory processes, and engaging in public discourse about the technology's risks and benefits. Balancing innovation with societal concerns and ensuring transparency are ongoing challenges.
Understanding the different perspectives, the scientific evidence, and the regulatory frameworks governing GMOs is important for any crop scientist, particularly those working in biotechnology or related fields.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Modern crop science operates within a complex web of ethical and environmental considerations. Balancing the need for increased food production with the imperative to protect natural resources and biodiversity is a central challenge.
Balancing Productivity and Biodiversity
Intensive agricultural practices, while increasing yields, can sometimes lead to reduced biodiversity through habitat loss and monoculture cropping systems. Crop scientists are increasingly focused on developing and promoting practices that enhance productivity while supporting or restoring biodiversity.
Strategies include developing diverse crop rotation systems, integrating cover crops, promoting agroforestry (combining trees with crops), and creating habitats for beneficial insects and pollinators within or near farm fields. The goal is to create agricultural landscapes that are both productive and ecologically sound.
This involves understanding ecological principles and finding ways to integrate them into farming systems, moving beyond a sole focus on maximizing yield per unit area.
These courses touch upon sustainable practices and land management, relevant to balancing productivity with environmental health.
Pesticide Use and Management
Pesticides play a role in controlling crop pests and diseases, but their overuse or misuse can harm beneficial organisms, contaminate water sources, and potentially pose risks to human health. Crop scientists work on developing safer, more targeted pesticides and promoting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies.
IPM emphasizes monitoring pest populations, using non-chemical control methods (like biological controls or resistant crop varieties) first, and applying pesticides only when necessary and in a targeted manner. Research also focuses on understanding pesticide fate in the environment and developing alternatives.
The controversy around certain pesticides highlights the need for rigorous scientific assessment, transparent communication about risks, and continuous innovation in pest control methods that minimize negative side effects.
Land Use and Water Resource Management
Agriculture is a major user of land and freshwater resources globally. Crop science addresses challenges related to sustainable land use, preventing soil erosion and degradation, and improving water use efficiency.
Scientists develop soil conservation techniques, research irrigation methods that consume less water (like drip irrigation), and breed crops that are more water-efficient. Understanding hydrology and soil physics is crucial for managing these resources effectively.
With increasing pressure on land and water due to population growth and climate change, innovations in resource management driven by crop science are essential for the future of agriculture.
This course specifically addresses irrigation efficiency, a critical aspect of water resource management in agriculture.
The Role of Agriculture in Carbon Sequestration
Agricultural soils have the potential to store significant amounts of carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. Practices like no-till farming, cover cropping, and incorporating organic matter can enhance soil carbon sequestration.
Crop scientists research the effectiveness of different farming practices in storing carbon, measure changes in soil carbon levels, and develop models to predict sequestration potential. They play a key role in understanding how agriculture can transition from being a source of greenhouse gas emissions to becoming part of the solution.
This area connects crop science directly with global climate mitigation efforts and requires an understanding of soil biochemistry and carbon cycling processes.
Frequently Asked Questions (Career Focus)
Exploring a career in crop science often raises specific questions about job prospects, transitions, and day-to-day realities. Here are answers to some common inquiries.
Is there strong global demand for crop scientists?
Yes, there is significant and growing global demand for crop scientists. The need to feed a projected global population nearing 10 billion by 2050, coupled with challenges like climate change and resource limitations, drives the need for innovation in agriculture. Research from organizations like the UN Food and Agriculture Organization highlights the critical role of agricultural science in achieving global food security.
Countries worldwide, both developed and developing, require expertise in improving crop yields, enhancing nutritional value, developing sustainable practices, and adapting agriculture to local environmental conditions. This translates into opportunities in research institutions, government agencies, private companies, and international organizations globally.
Reports indicate strong job markets in various regions. For example, some analyses suggest multiple job openings for every agricultural science graduate in countries like Australia and Canada, reflecting the high demand for skilled professionals in this vital sector.
Can I transition from a general Biology or Ecology background?
Absolutely. A strong background in biology or ecology provides an excellent foundation for a career in crop science. Many fundamental principles of plant life, genetics, and ecosystems directly apply. Transitioning often involves acquiring more specialized knowledge related to agriculture.
This might involve pursuing a graduate degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a crop science field like agronomy, plant breeding, or soil science. Alternatively, gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions in agricultural settings can bridge the gap. Online courses can also help acquire specific knowledge in areas like pest management or crop production techniques.
Many successful crop scientists started with broader life science degrees and specialized later. Your foundational understanding of biological processes is a significant asset in this interdisciplinary field.
What is the balance between fieldwork and lab work?
The balance varies greatly depending on the specific role and specialization. Some roles, like field agronomists or crop consultants, involve spending a significant amount of time outdoors, visiting farms, inspecting crops, and collecting samples. These positions require a willingness to work in various weather conditions.
Other roles, particularly in biotechnology, genetics, or certain areas of plant pathology, are primarily lab-based. Scientists in these roles spend most of their time conducting experiments, analyzing samples using specialized equipment, and working with data. Many research positions involve a mix of both lab and field/greenhouse work.
When considering career paths, reflect on your preference for indoor versus outdoor work environments. There are diverse opportunities catering to different preferences within crop science.
How might automation impact job prospects?
Automation, including robotics and AI, is increasingly being adopted in agriculture for tasks like planting, harvesting, monitoring, and data analysis. While automation may reduce demand for certain types of manual labor, it simultaneously creates new opportunities for skilled professionals, including crop scientists.
Crop scientists are needed to develop, implement, and manage these new technologies. Expertise in data analysis, sensor technology, robotics, and precision agriculture techniques will be increasingly valuable. Automation may shift the nature of some jobs, requiring adaptation and new skill sets, rather than eliminating the need for scientists altogether.
The focus may shift from routine tasks to higher-level analysis, system management, and interpreting the complex data generated by automated systems. Overall, automation is expected to transform, not necessarily reduce, opportunities in agricultural science, potentially mitigating labor shortages in some areas.
Are there specific licensing or certification requirements?
Unlike some professions (e.g., medicine, law), there isn't a single, universal license required to work as a crop scientist. However, specific certifications can enhance credibility and may be preferred or required for certain roles, particularly consulting or advisory positions.
The Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) program, offered by the American Society of Agronomy, is a well-recognized credential in North America, demonstrating expertise in crop management, soil and water management, pest management, and nutrient management. Other specialized certifications exist for areas like pest control application or specific technical skills.
While not always mandatory, pursuing relevant certifications can be beneficial for career advancement, especially in applied roles where demonstrating practical expertise to clients or employers is important.
What entrepreneurial opportunities exist in agritech?
The agricultural technology (agritech) sector offers numerous entrepreneurial opportunities for crop scientists. Innovations in areas like precision agriculture, biotechnology, sustainable inputs (biofertilizers, biopesticides), vertical farming, and supply chain traceability create space for new businesses.
Scientists with novel ideas for improved crop varieties, innovative farming techniques, data analysis platforms, or sustainable solutions can potentially start their own companies. This often involves securing venture capital funding, building a team, and navigating the complexities of product development and market entry.
Alternatively, experienced crop scientists can establish independent consulting practices, offering specialized expertise to farmers, agricultural companies, or investment firms evaluating agritech opportunities. The intersection of science, technology, and business in agriculture provides fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures.
A career as a Crop Scientist places you at the intersection of biology, technology, and environmental stewardship, tackling one of humanity's most fundamental challenges: feeding the world sustainably. It requires a strong scientific foundation, adaptability, and a passion for innovation. While the path demands dedication and continuous learning, the opportunities to contribute to global food security, environmental health, and cutting-edge research make it a deeply rewarding field for those drawn to applied science with a tangible impact.
