Toxicologists use analytical and scientific techniques to identify toxins such as chemicals, biological substances and radiation, and to assess the potential risks and harmful effects posed by them or the reasons of a person’s death.Toxicologists investigate toxic materials and how they can affect the environment and living organisms. The majority of toxicologists’ work is laboratory-based.
SKILLS AND STUDIES:
You can only become a toxicologist if you have a degree in an appropriate scientific subject, such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry, life sciences or medical sciences. A postgraduate qualification in toxicology or forensic science can be beneficial.
Knowledge skills:
Essential skills:
• A logical and independent mind
• Meticulous attention to detail
• Good teamworking abilities
Recommended additional skills:
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
Practical knowledge:
• designing, planning and undertaking controlled experiments and trials
• devising and testing hypotheses; using appropriate analytical techniques to identify and quantify toxins
• analysing and interpreting data
• giving evidence in institutions
• carrying out field studies
• studying relevant literature
• writing reports, reviews and papers
• collaborating and sharing expertise and research findings with scientific and technical staff
• supervising staff
• managing laboratories
Languages (grades/level): English Level C1 QCER