How to become A Toxicologist

• Medical Scientist

What do Toxicologists do?

A Toxicologist would typically need to:

• Identify, isolate, assess, and monitor the effects of toxic materials, radiation, drugs, chemicals, biological agents, and other substances on life forms and the environment; develop accurate methods to assess hazardous effects, the dosages that cause them, and safe exposure limits
• Understand the relationship between dose and effect and the impact on it from various factors, including the dosing regimen (a single large exposure vs repeated smaller ones), the exposure route (oral, dermal, or nasal), age, gender, and environment
• Plan and conduct meticulously designed and controlled laboratory or field experiments, trials, and studies to investigate diverse toxins; factor in the implications of future technology, such as gene-editing
• Devise and test scientific hypotheses, using scientific equipment and appropriate analytical and examination techniques to identify and quantify toxins and their effects on the entire ecosystem; collect, analyse, and interpret data
• Research and experiment with chemicals and known toxic substances to assess their degree of toxicity and how to minimise it
• Work across fields, including chemistry, biology, pharmacology, human and animal medicine, and environmental science, to advise the formulation of policies and regulations which protect the welfare of humans, animals, and the environment
• Test bodily fluids and tissue samples during autopsies, using biomedical and chemical instruments and various processes in a lab, to isolate and measure the presence of toxins or chemicals; maintain samples as well as possible for further testing
• Work to help solve criminal cases by searching for toxic substances in a crime scene; present forensic findings and evidence in court as testimony in a case
• Ensure that potential new drugs are safe to test on humans; study the effects of drug overdose and advise affected patients and their families on the treatment to counter those effects; learn about the poisonous properties of a product while an overdose crisis is going on
• Identify any likely harmful side effects and outcomes of potential new medicines; use experimental data from specialised techniques such as in vivo and in vitro tests to evaluate a drug's toxicity and create a safety profile, weighing potential benefits against risks
• Study relevant scientific literature; analyse and critically evaluate statistical data; interpret and integrate the data from various studies and research papers to generate conclusions and to write reviews, reports, and scientific papers on findings and results and findings
• Analyse the toxicity level of wastewater
• Provide advice and instructions on the safe handling of toxic substances and radiation in production or in case of an accident
• Work on research that has significant health considerations; collaborate as part of a team with other specialists, including computational and genetic Toxicologists and histopathologists; supervise staff
• Manage laboratories, ensuring that chemicals and laboratory instruments are safely used and stored; liaise with regulatory arthritis to ensure compliance with local, national, and international legislation for privacy, safety, and quality control in the lab
• Devise, implement, and interpret toxicological tests to fulfil regulatory requirements and data quality standards
• Generate recommendations for organisations and regulatory agencies, contextualising data and providing risk analyses to ensure that products and compounds are safely used for their intended purposes
• Collaborate and share expertise and research findings with staff, technical and non-technical, as needed

Entry-level Toxicologists work in animal facilities and laboratories, and those with a bachelor’s degree tend to continue working here. Those with a doctorate have office-based work, focusing on experiment planning and design, data interpretation, literature review, and writing reports and recommendations.

Laboratories are typically well-equipped, and Toxicologists may work alone or as part of a team. You will also spend considerable time researching in a library or the field. You may need to travel sometimes to testify at court hearings or collect field samples. You may have the chance to travel overseas to attend scientific conferences or participate in collaborative projects.

Working hours are usually 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. unless you are carrying out experiments or aiming to meet research project deadlines, in which case you need to work flexibly. Some roles may require work on weekends or evening shifts, as dictated by the priority of commitments. Since most toxicology jobs are research-based, you will typically find yourself engaged with a specific project at a time.

Many Toxicologists work in industry, some in the government, and some in academia. Consulting firms employ Toxicologists to provide professional recommendations to agencies, industries, and attorneys about matters involving toxic chemicals. You could opt for self-employment or freelance work and, with adequate experience, even take up consultancy work. A career break may set you behind as rapid technical changes define the industry.

Employers include private companies in diverse industries, government departments, and contract research organisations (CROs). You may find work in research or ecotoxicology (environmental hazard assessment - public or private sector), analytical and clinical toxicology, forensic departments, and other industries, such as pharmaceuticals.

Toxicologists are generally employed by:

• Water, Pharmaceutical & Chemical Companies
• Biotechnology Companies
• Food Companies
• Government
• Medical Schools
• Health & Safety Authorities
• Environment Agencies
• Universities
• Hospitals
• Forensic Laboratories
• Specialist Research Organisations
• Consultancies
• Non-Profit Research Foundations

Professional associations and organisations are a crucial resource for Toxicologists interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications. The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists (TIAFT) aims to foster collaboration among its members and to promote research in the field.

• Handling contaminated material and following strict safety precautions; the occurrence of accidents in which people get hurt, despite good laboratory practice; more significant risks than the average lab worker due to dealing with only toxic substances
• Long hours working in a lab analysing results, sometimes five days or more a week, can become monotonous and tiring, both physically and mentally, without regular breaks and activities outside the lab, given time and other constraints
• Back and eye strain due to the length of time spent using lab equipment and staring at a computer monitor
• Constant, meticulous attention to detail when performing examinations and tests
• Limited possibilities for advancement up the ladder other than to become senior Toxicologists

Student research projects, lab courses, and internships set you on the path to gaining experience in using laboratory instruments and equipment in correct and safe ways. Employers give weightage to relevant work experience, and you will benefit from taking up placements if your course provides them. Taking up part-time lab research will help build your practical skills and network.

If you work in government service, you may need to undergo prescribed training, depending on your entry route. You may start as a trainee, receiving a large chunk of industrial training. Inquire if your prospective employers sponsor academic programs that their employees wish to attend.

A bachelor’s degree in a scientific subject such as chemistry, pharmacy, forensic, life or medical sciences, or other related fields is the minimum qualification you need to become a Toxicologist. Relevant fields include the biological, biochemical, and biomedical sciences; food, crop, soil, and environmental sciences; and the veterinary sciences. These areas are considered for specialised projects, in particular. Courses in statistics and mathematics also come in handy on the job.

Bachelor's degree programs in toxicology cover the chemical makeup of toxins and their effects on biochemistry, physiology, and ecology. After introductory life science courses are complete, students usually enrol in labs and apply toxicology principles to research and other studies.

That said, employers typically prefer a master’s degree, particularly in toxicology or forensic science. Students usually acquire expertise in a particular field, including chemical, forensic clinical, human, environmental, chemical, or forensic toxicology. A solid foundation in science will train you in problem-solving, producing formal reports, and giving presentations.

Keep in mind, however, that all degree courses may not offer specialisation in toxicology but combine it with subjects like biochemistry and pharmacology.

Many senior Toxicologists have doctorate degrees in the field, although you may also receive further education in chemistry and medical or forensic science.

Soil microbiology and post mortem forensic toxicology are some topics that advanced education may cover. A year or two is all you need to wrap up a master's degree programme, including a student research project or thesis statement. PhD programmes can extend typically up to three or four years, given that you must complete several strands - specialised coursework, exams, and a dissertation. Advanced students may acquire specialised knowledge and skills in areas like the pharmaceutical industry or law enforcement.

In short, requirements are region-specific to an extent and also depend on your chosen niche in toxicology. In all cases, Toxicologists would make full use of their meticulously organised and detailed testing methodology, their skilled review and interpretation of industry-specific data, and their professionalism in guarding client privacy.

Certification reflects an individual’s competence and expertise in toxicology and can enhance career opportunities. It also helps professionals stay up-to-date with technology. Accredited organisations may certify Toxicologists, provided they fulfil educational criteria and clear the requisite examination. Typically, eligibility conditions would include a bachelor’s degree in specified fields and a decade of work or a master’s degree with seven years of experience or a doctorate with three years on the job.

Depending on the area, it may be mandatory. However, voluntary certification is often seen as evidence of an individual’s drive and motivation, giving them a leg up for raises and promotions. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics. Investigating members that practice outside the Code earns trust and respect, which are the most critical elements in securing a professional’s future.

Individual government entities conduct licensing. It typically requires the passage of an examination in addition to the fulfilment of eligibility requirements, such as a minimum level of education, work experience, training, or the completion of an internship, residency, or apprenticeship.

Career progression is driven by performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years. Since toxicology pertains to diverse industries, several job options are available to Toxicologists. Many professionals progress rapidly in their careers, particularly those with advanced educational qualifications.

Entry-level jobs entail conducting experiments on in vitro and animal models. Having gathered experience, you can progress to supervising others. Over time, as you gain experience, you may move up to supervise others. Applied research is possible with a master’s degree, but you will require a doctorate with postdoctoral experience to access the topmost positions. As a senior industrial Toxicologist, you may direct large studies conducted by contracting agencies. Or you may wish to move into related fields, such as regulatory affairs.

Skilled Toxicologists will find many advancement opportunities, although specific promotions depend on the size and type of organisation. Those working for private companies may become heads of research departments.

As a senior Toxicologist, you may choose to move into supervisory roles later in your career, but the compromise lies in taking on more administrative duties than research work. The same is the case with those skilled and respected professionals who may become Vice Presidents or Presidents of companies due to their earlier roles in developing company policy.

Working in academia, Toxicologists may rise to the roles of Professors, Heads of Department, or Deans. Continuing in research and teaching, they can progress to higher-paid posts with greater responsibilities. University jobs typically require you to formulate grant proposals, teach courses, and train graduates. Keep in mind that academic jobs give you the freedom to follow your chosen research path, while industrial positions pay better.

With an above-average job outlook and moderately low competition, Toxicologists are well placed to benefit from adequate job opportunities in the field. The demand for qualified and trained professionals is directly proportional to the expanding use of chemicals and pharmaceuticals by society because Toxicologists help assess and control anticipated health hazards from current or likely toxins.

On-the-job practical laboratory-based and good laboratory practice (GLP) training will help you learn the ropes. Project & study management, data interpretation, report writing & presentation are other areas you will usually receive training. Forensic work will require training in court reporting, too.

Continuing professional development (CPD) throughout your career is vital to keep current with the latest developments in toxicology. Attending lectures, seminars, workshops, and conferences or acquiring higher qualifications are useful avenues and offered by recognised science and healthcare institutes.

You may aim for higher qualifications through attending a master’s or a doctoral degree program in a specific area of toxicology. To qualify further if your current field of work is environmental or ecotoxicology and to aim for career progression, good areas of specialisation could be pollution science, waste management, or aquatic resource management. Check with your employers if they can support or sponsor you to study as you work.

Toxicologists can expect support and additional training from the academic institution or from Vitae, a non-profit global leader with over 50 years of experience in enhancing researchers’ skills. In partnership with governments, funders of research, academies, professional bodies, trusts & foundations, universities, and research institutes, Vitae offers training, resources, events, consultancy, and membership.

Specialisations

While Toxicology is a multidisciplinary field, it can be broadly classified into several areas.

Forensic toxicology attempts to find evidence of the role of any poisons in human death. Regulatory toxicology ensures that laboratory testing data finds practical application in policy formulation that governs the use of chemicals and exposure limits in diverse settings to protect the wellbeing of humans, animals, and the environment. Descriptive toxicology focuses on testing for toxicity.

Mechanistic toxicology is the study of the mechanisms by which toxins affect living organisms, how they metabolise, and how they are excreted after an episode of exposure.

Clinical toxicology studies how and why toxin exposure leads to diseases or disease states. Biochemical toxicology analyses the interactions between living systems and toxicants.

Genetic toxicology deals with how chemicals and other substances in the environment can cause mutations and disease.

Teratology examines how a developing embryo may develop following the mother’s exposure to toxicants.

Environmental toxicology or ecotoxicology studies the hazardous and far-reaching effects of air, water, and soil pollutants.

General Principles

As suggested by Paracelsus, a Swiss physician also known as the “Father of Toxicology”, there are some principles to follow. First, experimentation plays a crucial role in examining responses to chemicals. Secondly, Toxicologists must distinguish between the therapeutic and toxic properties of chemicals. Thirdly, these properties may or may not be distinct from each other, and dose plays a vital role in pinpointing the difference. It is possible to identify a degree of specificity of chemicals and their effects, positive or negative.

Understanding the Concept of Dose

One may define dose as the amount of chemical/toxicant/drug entering the body, usually stated as mg of the substance/kg of body weight or mg/kg. The dose may depend on the concentration of the substance in the environment, the substance properties, and the duration, pathway, and frequency of exposure. The extent and range of responses in the organism would be determined by the dose and the organism’s condition.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Being a freelance Toxicologist offers freedom regarding flexible schedules, working hours, and location. They have full ownership of the business and can afford selectivity in terms of the variety of projects and clients presented. While it has unlimited earning potential, it also has less stability and security, with inconsistent work and cash flow. There is more responsibility, effort, and risk involved. There are no paid holidays, and sick/maternity/paternity leaves are almost unaffordable. There is the added pressure of a self-employment tax and no eligibility for unemployment benefits.

However, a full-time Toxicologist has access to company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. They are susceptible to potential boredom and inability to pursue passion projects due to their lack of time or effort. There is a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety and also the need to budget extra money for commuting and attire costs.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Not just alcohol but even certain foods contain poisons and toxins. For instance, bitter almonds contain cyanide traces, which are typically removed through heat treatment to make them safe to consume.

Toxicology has evolved considerably from when Paracelsus declared that poison is found in everything - it is only the dosage that determines whether something is a poison or a remedy. As a Toxicologist who deals with diverse areas, you will carry forward your science successfully if you invest your time and energy into planning and carrying out your experiments while also collaborating with a multidisciplinary team. The satisfaction will come from knowing that you enhance the quality of life and the environment.

Let the lawyers deal with the legalities. As a Toxicologist, you know the science of the case best. Stick with it. Also, know your deadlines and stick to them as well.