Toxicologist

Toxicologists study the harmful effects of chemicals on living organisms by examining the symptoms, mechanisms, treatments and detection of biological poisoning (especially the poisoning of people).

Toxicologists may perform the following tasks:

study the amount of exposure to a substance (e.g. from pollution caused by environmental contaminants such as industrial waste products or emergency events such as a gas leak) and the potential effect it may have on public health, plants, animals and/or the ecosystem
study the genetic, chemical, physical and structural composition of cells, tissues and organisms
devise and carry out experiments to determine how drug concentrations in the body change over time and test newly discovered or manufactured substances for their safety, activity and possible use as drugs
analyse biological and environmental samples to identify the chemical composition of narcotics, drugs, contaminants and other substances in blood, urine or other biological and environmental samples to determine the levels of concentration
evaluate evidence from cases where tampering and contamination has occurred
write scientific reports on research, investigations and more general information for scientific, managerial, political and general audiences
document results, preserve evidence and maintain chain of custody (the document or paper trail showing the process of evidence seizure through to the presentation of the evidence in court) in criminal investigations
provide advice to managers, politicians, primary producers, healthcare workers and the general public.

Specialisations:

Clinical Toxicologist

A clinical toxicologist has medical qualifications to study the harmful effects of chemicals, drugs, pesticides and other substances on humans through clinical diagnosis of symptoms and detection and diagnosis of biological poisoning. Clinical toxicologists also treat and manage intoxicated patients.

Environmental Toxicologist

An environmental toxicologist studies the harmful effects of chemical, physical and biological agents on living organisms, including fish, plants, animals and humans.

Forensic Toxicologist

A forensic toxicologist specialises in the study of alcohol, legal and illicit drugs and poisons, including their chemical composition, preparations and identifications. Forensic toxicologists also study the absorption, distribution and elimination characteristics of chemicals and substances in the body, as well as the way in which the body responds to them and the factors that determine drug safety and effectiveness.

Regulatory Toxicologist

A regulatory toxicologist has the primary role of ensuring public health and safety from the use of chemicals, drugs and pesticides, by identifying potential health risks posed by exposure to such substances. Regulatory toxicologists provide advice to governments, health professionals, politicians and the public on potential risks associated with chemical exposure so that appropriate risk management strategies may be implemented to protect the health of workers and the public.

Personal Requirements:

enjoy and have aptitude for science and research
able to think logically and analytically
able to carry out detailed and accurate work
good communication skills
able to think creatively and solve problems
able to work as part of a team.

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