Ask A Scientist© Biology Archive

Text:        I am an eighth grade student that is interested in a career in 
plant disease and cures.  What areas should I study for this field?

Response #:  1 of 1
Author:      moodywj
Text:        It is a great career, either as a basic researcher or working on 
the more applied aspects, such as disease cures or agricultural production.  
In eighth grade, it is an early start.  I would learn basic general biology.  
In college, most will have a major in biology with an emphasis on molecular 
and cellular biology.  They will also have biochemistry or molecular biology 
majors themselves.  You will most likely start in college with intense basic 
biology and then move into a concentrated set of courses in molecular biology.  
Almost all major public and private universities will be good in this area, 
but you want one with a large enough research program so that eventually you 
can work in a lab and get hands on research experience.  This is where it 
really gets exciting!