To become a toxicologist in many countries, including the United States, you must first obtain a medical degree or a bachelor’s degree in science, followed two years of additional study. If you do not have a medical degree, you will need to devote as much time as possible to toxicology training during the two years following your bachelor’s degree. Classes and training in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, environmental science, and pharmacology should be included in the curriculum. Because toxicologists frequently use computer applications to perform their job duties, you’ll also need to develop strong written and oral communication skills, as well as basic but solid computer skills.
Toxicologists can work in a variety of fields, including forensics, pharmaceuticals, occupational, clinical, industrial, and environmental toxicology. Toxicologists design and conduct studies and experiments in the lab and in the field to determine the effects of toxic substances and radiation on human health. Their research and findings show how a toxic substance affects people, animals, plants, and the environment. They also provide advice and instruction on how to reduce or eliminate the use of such substances.
Other things to think about before becoming a toxicologist are the typical duties you’ll have to perform depending on where you work and for what organization or company. You might be in charge of liaising with regulatory authorities to ensure that toxic materials are handled, disposed of, and avoided in accordance with local laws. You might be able to find work in a poison control center, a factory or plant, or a variety of other industries. You could work in a hospital or a clinic, including animal hospitals and clinics, if you are a medical doctor or veterinarian who has completed what is generally considered toxicology coursework.
Another important consideration when deciding whether or not to pursue a career as a toxicologist is whether or not you have strong feelings about the suffering that you may be asked to inflict on laboratory animals. You can still work as a laboratory toxicologist if you don’t believe in testing on animals in laboratories, but you won’t have as many options as someone who doesn’t. Students interested in a career in toxicology should take as many biology, chemistry, environmental science, and mathematics courses as possible in high school.