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Research, Education & Extension

Sector Profiles

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Advancing Knowledge for a Sustainable Future

Introduction to Careers in Research, Extension, and Education
A career in organic research, extension, and/or education offers a meaningful path for individuals passionate about advancing organic practices through scientific discovery, supporting farmers with science-backed research, and contributing to a more resilient food system. Professionals in this field play a vital part in addressing pressing challenges such as soil health degradation, pest management, crop resilience, climate change, and other essential topics that drive innovation in organic farming. Whether conducting field trials, translating research into practical guidance, or educating the next generation of farmers and scientists, professionals in this field help bridge the gap between science and practice.


This career path is ideal for individuals who are organized, curious, solution-oriented, and committed to making an impact on food and farming enterprises. Those with a passion for sustainable food systems, hands-on problem-solving, and collaborating with farmers, researchers, and policymakers will find rewarding and impactful opportunities in this field.

Typical Employers

Careers in organic research can be found in a variety of settings, from academic institutions, local, regional and federal government, nonprofit organizations, and private organizations. Examples of employers include:

Universities and Research Institutions:

Land-grant Universities are known for housing strong agriculture programs. Not all institutions conduct research and./or field trials in organic agriculture, so it is important to review faculty and program profiles.

Government Agencies:

Local county or state-led agencies, as well as federal agencies, such as the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), or National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) which support public-sector research in organic practices.

Nonprofit Organizations:

Organizations such as the Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF), Rodale Institute, and the Soil Health Institute engage in research and education in organic farming.

Private Entities:

For profit corporations often hire researchers to help develop new products or investigate soil health or seed and breeds. Some examples include: General Mills, Natures Valley, Cascadian Farm, and Eden Foods.

Types of Work in Organic Research

Careers in organic research are diverse, encompassing various specializations that contribute to a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture.

 

University or College Faculty Positions– Research, Teaching, or Extension:

Description: University faculty roles in organic agriculture typically fall into three categories: research, teaching, or extension. Research faculty lead scientific studies on organic systems, publish findings, and secure grant funding. Teaching faculty instruct undergraduate and graduate courses, mentor students, and develop educational resources. Extension faculty focus on outreach, providing technical support to farmers and disseminating organic research through workshops, field days, and publications. Pathway: A PhD in a relevant field (agriculture, plant sciences, soil sciences, etc.) is generally required, along with a strong record of research, teaching, or extension experience. Postdoctoral experience can enhance competitiveness for research faculty roles. Key Skills: Scientific research and writing, publishing findings, grant writing, public speaking, and knowledge translation for diverse audiences.

Lab Manager or Research Technician:

Description: Lab managers and research technicians oversee and conduct experiments in academic, government, or private-sector laboratories. In organic agriculture, this may involve testing soil health, analyzing plant or microbial samples, or managing field trials. They also maintain lab equipment, manage data, and support faculty or senior researchers. Pathway: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in agriculture, biology, or a related field is typically required. Lab experience, including technical skills in sample analysis and data management, is essential. Some positions require a PhD. Key Skills: A breadth of laboratory techniques specific to a discipline, data management, quality control, and attention to detail.

Technical Service Provider (TSP) – Soil Health Specialist:

Description: TSPs, such as soil health specialists or agronomists, provide direct technical assistance to farmers. They assess soil quality, recommend organic management practices, and help farmers implement conservation practices. They may work for federal or state agencies (e.g., USDA-NRCS), non-profits, or as independent consultants. Pathway: A degree in soil science, agronomy, or environmental science is typically required. Many TSPs obtain certifications such as Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) or Conservation Planner. Field experience and familiarity with organic systems are valuable. Key Skills: Detail oriented, understanding soil health and conservation planning, ability to communicate effectively with farmers.

Certified Crop Advisor (CCA):

Description: CCAs provide expert guidance to farmers on crop management, including soil fertility, pest management, and sustainable practices. In organic systems, CCAs advise on organic inputs, rotation strategies, and compliance with organic standards. They may work independently or for consulting firms, cooperatives, or government agencies. Pathway: A bachelor’s degree in agronomy, crop science, or a related field is common, though experience can sometimes substitute for formal education. Passing the CCA exam and meeting experience requirements is necessary for certification. Key Skills: Agronomic expertise, regulatory knowledge, and problem-solving abilities.

Researcher in the Private Sector – Food Scientist, Microbiologist, Agronomist, Plant Breeder, Animal Scientist

Description: Private-sector researchers work for food companies, seed companies, or biotech firms. In organic agriculture, they may develop new organic seed varieties, study organic food preservation techniques, or conduct research on organic microbial products. These roles often involve lab and fieldwork, data analysis, and product development. Pathway: A master’s or PhD in food science, microbiology, plant breeding, or related fields is required. Internships or research experience in the private sector can provide a pathway into these roles. Key Skills: Scientific research, data analysis, product development, and innovation.

Non-Profit Sector Positions include: Researcher or Education Program Coordinators or Managers

Description: Private-sector researchers work for food companies, seed companies, or biotech firms. In organic agriculture, they may develop new organic seed varieties, study organic food preservation techniques, or conduct research on organic microbial products. These roles often involve lab and fieldwork, data analysis, and product development. Pathway: A master’s or PhD in food science, microbiology, plant breeding, or related fields is required. Internships or research experience in the private sector can provide a pathway into these roles. Key Skills: Scientific research, data analysis, product development, and innovation.

Extension Agent or Agricultural Educator:

Description: While many Extension specialists work through land-grant universities, there are also state and county extension offices that are not faculty positions. These individuals focus on offering technical assistance, hosting workshops, and providing educational resources to farmers. Organic-focused extension agents help producers adopt organic practices and navigate certification requirements. Pathway: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in agriculture, extension education, or related fields is required. Experience in farm advisory services, teaching, or public speaking is valuable. Key Skills: Practical agricultural knowledge, ability to translate science to a lay audience, clear communication skills.

Real-World Insights and Career Spotlights

Hear from professionals working in organic research, sharing their experiences on how their work impacts organic farming and environmental sustainability. Learn about their motivations, the research challenges they face, and how they are making a difference in organic agriculture.

Additional Resources for Exploration

For those interested in careers in organic research, extension, or education, it is important to familiarize yourself with the various types of organizations that hire people into the roles that you find interesting. Find a mentor by reaching out to faculty or professionals who already are in careers that you seek.

Academic Route

The Organic Farming Research Foundation compiled a list of Land Grant institutions that offer organic programs in 2019.  While there have been changes to some universities, much of this information is still relevant: Organic Land Grant Assessment.

Government Positions:


Positions for federal government jobs are posted on USA Jobs: https://www.usajobs.gov/

State and local governments often post their positions on Government Jobs: https://www.governmentjobs.com/ 

Also visit the website for various departments of agriculture or natural resources in each county, city, or state you are interested in working in and search their job or career postings.

You can find a comprehensive list of the US State Departments of Agriculture here: https://www.nasda.org/about-nasda/state-agriculture-departments/ 

Some county examples include the Resource Conservation District of Monterey County https://www.rcdmonterey.org/ and the Orleans County Natural Resource Conservation District https://www.orleanscountynrcd.org/

Non-Profit and Private Sector:


Most states have organic farming associations, such as the Organic Association of Kentucky, Northeast Organic Farming Association, and Georgia Organics, Florida Organic Association, Marbleseed, and the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association. Some organic certifying agencies have separate entities that offer technical assistance to farmers, such as Oregon Tilth and California Certified Organic Farms.