agronom

An agronom (also agronomist) is a professional who studies soil management and crop production. Agronomists analyze how soil properties, water availability, climate, plant genetics, and farming practices interact to influence crop yield and quality. The aim is to develop methods that increase productivity while conserving soil, water, and biodiversity, and reducing environmental impact.

Core activities include designing and conducting field experiments, evaluating soil fertility and nutrient management, optimizing irrigation and drainage, selecting crop varieties and planting practices, and developing pest, weed, and disease management strategies. They may also work on soil conservation, crop rotation, and agronomic policy recommendations. In applied settings, agronomists provide technical advice to farmers and agribusinesses and contribute to extension services and training.

Most hold a bachelor's degree in agronomy, crop science, soil science, or agricultural science; many pursue master's or doctoral degrees for research roles. Key skills include experimental design and statistics, data analysis, agronomic modeling, and familiarity with farm equipment and precision agriculture tools; knowledge of sustainable practices and environmental regulations is common.

The discipline emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries with the development of scientific agriculture; its methods were essential to the Green Revolution and modern farming. The term "agronomy" derives from Greek agron "field" and nomos "law" or "management".

Agronomists work in universities, government agencies, research institutes, seed and agrochemical companies, and large farming operations. Their work supports food security, climate resilience, and farm profitability by applying science to field-level decisions.