Also called: Plant Nematologist
Studies nematodes, microscopic worms in the soil that can destroy crops like soybeans and potatoes.
A nematologist washes soil samples, counts tiny worms under a microscope, and tests resistant crop varieties in greenhouses. Farmers and seed companies rely on them to stop losses that cost billions each year.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Doctorate (PhD), about 9 years after high school. Bachelor's in biology or plant science, then a PhD.
Ways in: 4-year college, Graduate school. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Plant Pathology, Biology, Entomology.
Growing much faster than average (about 8% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection band for SOC 19-1013: Much faster than average (7% or higher).
Low risk for 10 years. AI image counting speeds lab work; field sampling and research on these tiny pests stay human, and experts are scarce.
Classes: AP Biology, Chemistry, Statistics.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-1013.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.