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What Are the Credentials for Being a Toxicologist?

A toxicologist studies the effect of chemicals. Toxicologists may focus on a variety of specialties. Toxicologists conduct research with advanced techniques in biomedical sciences, molecular biology and analytical chemistry. Toxicologists carry out studies of specific chemicals of social and economic importance. They assess whether specific chemicals, processes or situations pose a significant risk to human health or the environment. Also, forensic toxicologists play a significant role in criminal investigations.

  1. Skills

    • A toxicologist holds at least a master's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biological science or forensic science. Excellent laboratory and computer skills are critical. A toxicologist must know the principles, practices and application of toxicology. Another common trait for a toxicologist is an apptitude for handling chemical and physical laboratory equipment and material. In addition, the person must know the basic principles of physics as well as college level mathematics in order to fulfill the minimum job requirements. Application of chemical, biological and physical sciences and risk assessment models to exposure to toxic and hazardous substances is also mandatory.

    Prerequisites

    • The first step is to obtain a bachelor's or master's degree in science, which can be chemistry, biology or environmental science. In case of medical or forensic toxicology, a medical degree has to be obtained before further studies can take place.

    Higher Degrees in Toxicology

    • Several universities around the world offer master's and Ph.D. programs in toxicological pathology. A toxicologist can be a forensic, medical, chemical, environmental,or even a veterinary toxicologist. More than 50 universities in the United States offer toxicology master's and doctoral programs. Some of them offer online study, such as Drexler University or the University of Florida. The University of Florida offers master's degrees in toxicology focusing on forensic toxicology, forensic drug chemistry, forensic science and forensic DNA and serology.

      Applicants must successfully complete a Ph.D. program of at least 60 graduate semester credits, a written and oral comprehensive qualifying exam and defense of a doctoral dissertation.

    Associations for Toxicologists

    • A person must meet the minimum educational qualification (i.e. baccalaureate degree) in order to be accepted by an association for toxicologists such as the Society of Toxicology (SOT) and the American College of Medical Toxicology. Toxicologists focusing on environmental, chemical and biological science are welcome to join. To be accepted as a member an applicant must also provide an up-to-date resume, a list of publications where your works have published, names and e-mail addresses of SOT members who will serve as your sponsors and the name of your doctoral advisor or mentor.

    Employment

    • Hospitals, governmental institutions, pharmaceutical companies and the chemical industry demand toxicologists frequently. Generally all of these employers determine that an applicant for a job as toxicologist must hold a specific degree in toxicology.

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