27.5.13

The Advantages Of Consulting Toxicology Work

By Vicki Diaz


The consulting toxicology department of a business will investigate the affects that various chemicals have on humans or the environment. This may involve substances that could potentially be poisonous, and toxic chemicals that could be harmful. A toxicologist will be trained in concepts surrounding biology, medication and chemistry, and will have studied for several years.

Experiments and research projects are part of a toxicologist's job, in order to assess the properties of all kinds of chemical substances. The outcome of the experiments will determine the substances which are harmful, the effect of the harmful substance or the amount of substance that will have negative consequences. Toxicology is important for analysis of environmental conditions, as well as for indicating the safety of pharmaceutical drugs on the market.

Individuals interested in toxicology may end up in specific fields of the industry, for example, as a forensic or aquatic toxicologist. Both will perform similar tasks, but will work in different environments. Waste and toxicity of water, and marine life, will be the main concern of an aquatic toxicologist.

A number of study years are required to qualify as a toxicologist. The individual will need to learn chemistry, biology and physics, as well as skills relating to public relations. The person should be mathematically inclined, able to understand calculus and statistics. A master, or even a doctorate degree in toxicology is ideal.

Internship or work-study programs are valuable, as they offer the learner a chance to actually experience the job. New toxicologists could also benefit from company training courses. It is also often required for toxicologists to participate in further educational studies, and to attend training courses while they are working. They must be knowledgeable of the most recent procedures and toxicology equipment as well.

Since that the state of the environment is a growing concern, and that humans will always need advanced medical experimentation, toxicologist positions will often be available. Twenty percent more positions in the field of medical science will be open in the years leading up to 2016. It is a fast-growing profession.

A professional toxicologist can look forward to earning a good salary every year. While the lower salaries start at about $55,000, the higher ones reach up to almost $95,000. New positions will be available for several reasons, which include companies expanding their departments, older employees retiring and currently employed staff members transferring or leaving the company.

A few personality traits are helpful in this type of career. If you are patient, determined, responsible and a 'team player', it will be advantageous. Toxicologists are also often left to work on their own, therefore, you will need to be able to take the initiative. Good hand-eye coordination is required as well. You must be interested in the study of toxic materials, and be willing to follow strict safety precautions.

It is not wise to be in a consulting toxicology firm if you dislike maths or science, as these are two important aspects of the job. Those who do choose the career, should find it fulfilling. It is quite rewarding to be part of a team that works to make the world a safer place.




About the Author: