Wood Scientist Career Description
Wood is a renewable but expensive raw material. The current technological era with its emphasis on sustainability, effectiveness and optimal use of wood, knowledge of the properties and processing methods as well as of the products manufactured from it, are required.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
Wood science is a material science in which the physical, chemical and biological properties of wood are studied. This knowledge forms the basis for further study in the technology of processing this raw material to various products such as pulp, paper, building and construction timber and composite products such as chip and fibreboard and laminated beams. Wood scientists apply their knowledge in wood processing plants such as sawmills, board factories, fumiture factories and pulp and paper plants to ensure the most effective use of the raw material. Because of their technological knowledge and industryorientated education, wood scientists ultimately become managers of human and production resources in these manufacturing industries, which supply essential products to modern society.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need?
The prospective wood scientist should be interested in technology and have an aptitude for Mathematics and Physical Science. Good organizational ability, interpersonal relationships and business expertise is also important, as well as the ability to think creatively, since technical problems must be solved continuously.
Where can I work?
Graduates in Wood Science (Mechanical Processing) work in technical and managing posts in sawmilling, plywood, chip, fibre board and laminating factories as well as at wood preservation plants and furniture factories.
The B.Eng. (Chemical Engineering) is recommended for students who want to follow a career in the pulp and paper industry. Both fields are suitable for students who are interested in a research career.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
Excellent opportunities exist for wood scientists with an entrepreneurial ability,
especially in the mechanical industry to .
establish their own businesses, for example m the primary and secondary processing of wood such as the building of wooden houses, etc.
In the chemical conversion industry persons could be active in fringe industries such as consulting services, supply of materials and equipment, etc.
With the necessary experience one could be a consultant in the industry or a timber agent in the marketing chain.
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