Plant Molecular Biology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Plant Molecular Biology is an advanced interdisciplinary field dedicated to unraveling the intricate molecular mechanisms that govern plant life. By integrating principles from molecular biology, biochemistry, and biophysics, this program explores the structure, function, and dynamic processes of biomolecules within plants and their derived compounds.
- Plant Cell Biochemistry: Investigates the chemical composition and metabolic pathways within plant cells, emphasizing how molecular components drive growth, development, and environmental adaptation.
- Nuclear-Cytoplasmic Interactions: Examines the complex communication and regulatory networks between the plant cell nucleus and cytoplasm, crucial for gene expression and cellular coordination.
- Molecular Cytostructures: Focuses on the organization and function of subcellular structures at the molecular level, including organelles and cytoskeletal elements essential to plant cell integrity and function.
- Photosynthesis at the Molecular Level: Explores the biochemical and genetic basis of light energy conversion, analyzing the protein complexes and electron transport systems involved in carbon fixation.
- Plant Molecular Genetics: Studies the inheritance, regulation, and manipulation of plant genes, enabling advances in crop improvement and functional genomics.
- Molecular Biology of Plant Diseases: Analyzes the genetic and molecular interactions between plants and pathogens, supporting the development of resistant varieties and sustainable disease management strategies.
Plant Molecular Biology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Plant Molecular Biology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Plant Molecular Biology degrees, including Biological Scientists, All Other and Soil and Plant Scientists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 76,310 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Scientists, All Other 19-1029 | $93,330 | $54,500 - $159,780 | 59,710 | $44.87 |
| Soil and Plant Scientists 19-1013 | $71,410 | $45,320 - $131,440 | 16,600 | $34.33 |
Plant Molecular Biology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $62,745 in West Virginia to $104,460 in Connecticut—a 66% difference. The highest-paying states include Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Alaska. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 76,310 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Plant Molecular Biology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 3 institutions offering Plant Molecular Biology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Plant Molecular Biology is found at Washington State University (WSU) (7 graduates), University of Florida (UF) (4 graduates), and Alamance Community College (ACC) (1 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 12 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington State University (WSU) |
Master's
Doctorate (Research)
|
7 | Pullman, Washington | Public | wsu.edu |
| University of Florida (UF) |
Doctorate (Research)
|
4 | Gainesville, Florida | Public | ufl.edu |
| Alamance Community College (ACC) |
Associate's
|
1 | Graham, North Carolina | Public | alamancecc.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Plant Molecular Biology programs
How much can I earn with a Plant Molecular Biology degree?
Salaries for Plant Molecular Biology graduates vary by role and location. Biological Scientists, All Other earn a median of $93,330 annually, while Soil and Plant Scientists earn around $71,410. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Connecticut average $104,460 compared to $62,745 in West Virginia. Approximately 76,310 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Plant Molecular Biology programs?
Currently 3 accredited institutions offer Plant Molecular Biology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Washington State University (WSU) (7 graduates), University of Florida (UF) (4 graduates), and Alamance Community College (ACC) (1 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Plant Molecular Biology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 14 in 2010 to 12 in 2023-24. This represents a 14% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Plant Molecular Biology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Biological Scientists, All Other, Soil and Plant Scientists, . Related occupations employ approximately 76,310 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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