Investigational Toxicologist

An Investigational Toxicologist develops methods for evaluating and minimizing potential toxic effects of chemicals and other toxic substances. They also carry out or supervise investigations into the toxic effects of chemicals, including both acute and chronic effects, on human health and the environment.

Job Duties

Investigational Toxicologists work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, industry, and academia. Their job duties may include:

• Designing and conducting studies to investigate the toxic effects of chemicals
• Analyzing data and interpreting results
• Developing methods for evaluating and minimizing the toxic effects of chemicals
• Writing reports and presenting findings to clients and regulatory agencies
• Providing expert testimony in legal proceedings
• Teaching and training other toxicologists
• Staying abreast of the latest developments in toxicology

Education and Training

Investigational Toxicologists typically have a master's degree or doctorate in toxicology or a related field. They must also have a strong foundation in chemistry and biology. Many Investigational Toxicologists also have experience working in a laboratory setting.

Certification

Investigational Toxicologists can obtain certification from the American Board of Toxicology (ABT). Certification demonstrates that a toxicologist has the knowledge and skills necessary to practice toxicology.

Career Outlook

The job outlook for Investigational Toxicologists is expected to be good over the next few years. The demand for toxicologists is expected to grow as industries and government agencies increasingly focus on the safety of chemicals and other toxic substances.

Skills

Investigational Toxicologists typically have the following skills:

• Strong understanding of toxicology
• Excellent research skills
• Ability to design and conduct studies
• Ability to analyze data and interpret results
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Up-to-date knowledge of the latest developments in toxicology

Personal Qualities

Investigational Toxicologists should be curious, analytical, and detail-oriented. They should also be able to work independently and as part of a team. Investigational Toxicologists must also be able to communicate their findings effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Projects

Investigational Toxicologists may work on a variety of projects, including:

• Developing new methods for evaluating the toxicity of chemicals
• Conducting studies to investigate the health effects of exposure to chemicals
• Providing expert testimony in legal proceedings
• Teaching and training other toxicologists

Growth Opportunities

Investigational Toxicologists can advance their careers by taking on leadership roles, becoming certified, and pursuing further education. They may also move into related fields, such as environmental health or regulatory affairs.

Self-Guided Projects

Students who are interested in becoming Investigational Toxicologists can complete a number of self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for this career. These projects may include:

• Conducting a literature review on a specific topic in toxicology
• Designing and conducting a small-scale study
• Developing a new method for evaluating the toxicity of a chemical
• Writing a report on the results of their research
• Presenting their findings at a scientific conference

Online Courses

There are a number of online courses that can help students learn about toxicology and prepare for a career as an Investigational Toxicologist. These courses may cover topics such as:

• The principles of toxicology
• The methods used to evaluate the toxicity of chemicals
• The health effects of exposure to chemicals
• The regulatory framework for toxicology
• The latest developments in toxicology

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about toxicology and prepare for a career as an Investigational Toxicologist. However, they are not a substitute for hands-on experience in a laboratory setting. Students who are interested in becoming Investigational Toxicologists should also consider pursuing a master's degree or doctorate in toxicology.