The breeder is an ancient profession whose roots lead to the beginning of agriculture and cattle breeding. Thanks to this unusual craft, thousands of new species of animals, and even more plants, saw the light of day. And even though the first breeders understood little in biology and genetics, their work created a solid foundation for the birth of an entire science.
So let's figure out who the breeder is today: is it a profession or maybe a vocation? How relevant is it in modern realities? And what pitfalls can await a person who decides to master this difficult task?
Who is a breeder?
Russian breeders, in principle, like foreign specialists, are primarily scientists. Their main goal is to improve various types of living organisms. For example, they can develop new, more resistant, say, to diseases, varieties of potatoes or eggplant.
However, one should not assume that breeders deal only with plants. Their scope is much wider and more diverse. So, they cross different types of animals in order to breed new breeds. Breeders also work with bacteria and viruses, which is true, such studies are much more complicated and dangerous.
Why are breeders needed?
Probably, it should start with the fact that without these specialists the world would be completely different from what we used to see it. Indeed, it was thanks to them that many varieties of fruit trees and other crops appeared, they bred new breeds of domestic animals. By the way, if earlier the appearance of a new species was more likely an accident than the result of human efforts, today everything is completely different.
Now the breeder is a qualified specialist who can work wonders. Over the past decade alone, they have bred more than 1000 varieties of wheat and about 100 varieties of sweet pears. From now on, these plants and trees can be grown equally well in both dry and humid climates.
How to become a breeder?
A breeder is a profession that requires special education. You can get it by entering one of the country's agricultural universities. In fairness, it is worth noting that this profession is difficult to master.
Throughout the entire period of study, students will have to carefully study all aspects of the development of living beings. Therefore, you will need to deepen your knowledge in such disciplines as biology, chemistry and genetics.
Important are the internal qualities of the future specialist. In order to succeed in his work, the breeder must be able to "look into the future", to anticipate the specific results of his activities. He is also required to have an analytical mindset in order to easily carry out genetic calculations and modulations. Well, excerpt, where would you be without her. Sometimes a breeder has to experience the bitterness of a thousand failures before a decent result brings the joy of a long-awaited victory.
Where to look for a job?
The ideal workplace for the breeder is a research center. It is here that he is able to reveal his full potential in research and experimentation. True, the trouble is that not every city is capable of boasting the presence of such an institution.
Breeders are also in demand at various agricultural enterprises. For example, on private farms, incubators, wheat fields and so on. Let world fame not earn here, but you will not stay hungry either.
Pros and cons of the profession
To begin with, the breeder is a very narrow area. This leads to the fact that it is quite difficult for specialists to find a job, especially not according to their direct profile. It also happens that an experienced breeder has to look for a worthy place away from his home.
As for the pluses, here, first of all, one should take into account the pride and joy that scientists experience during discoveries. Do not lose sight of a good salary with minimal physical effort.