How to Become a Toxicologist

Many toxicologists are actively involved in government agencies, helping to set new industry standards and environmental protection laws.

A toxicologist who works in a hospital laboratory analyzes blood and tissue samples to check for traces of poisons, pharmaceuticals, or other foreign chemicals.

Successful toxicologists generally have several opportunities for advancement within the field, and many scientists eventually become lead researchers or independent consultants.

Some toxicologists decide to become university professors in order to teach the subject to new generations of scientists and enjoy a high degree of research freedom working at school laboratories.

Toxicologists use the latest, most advanced biotechnological methods to learn about toxins at the molecular level.

Visit our site map that lists many different ways to find what you might be looking for.

Quality Control Executive/officer.

Graduate high school – A high school diploma or GED are naturally prerequisites to an undergraduate degree.

Seek entry-level experience (timeline varies) – With a completed undergraduate degree, recent graduates can seek out work in a toxicology lab.

Consider an advanced degree or certificate.

Toxicologists study the effects of toxic materials in the environment and evaluate the toxic hazards of chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides and new pharmaceuticals.

A typical day for a toxicologist might include research, fieldwork, modeling, analysis and advisory work.

Toxicologists also work collaboratively across disciplines with other scientists and regulators to ensure compliance with the law and public safety.

In rare cases, a toxicologist's day might include professional development work such as attending technical seminars and workshops to learn industry best practices and techniques.

A prominent US toxicologist has cast doubt on a lab report suggesting the former Hollywood star Brittany Murphy was poisoned.

The toxicologist must be ready to explain their conclusions clearly and in detail to a jury and to defend their results under cross-examination in the courtroom.

Working as a forensic toxicologist involves long periods of standing or sitting in a laboratory setting, using microscopes and other equipment or techniques needing lengthy application of fine motor skills.

Toxicologists must also complete continuing education throughout their careers in order to keep their skills current stay up to date with advancements in the field.

For example, medical or veterinary toxicologists must become doctors or veterinarians first, then pursue advanced coursework and training in toxicology.

There are many organizations within different sectors of industry that are interested in utilizing the skills, knowledge and competencies of toxicologists.