Forensic Toxicology

While toxicology might be regarded as the science of poisons, it can be more fully described as the study of the negative effects of chemicals on living organisms. Forensic toxicology involves the study of toxins – poisons, drugs and other substances that have a life-threatening effect on a living being. A forensic toxicologist knows the rates of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs and chemicals along with a variety of other features about the nature of the interaction of toxins with the human body. Forensic toxicologists may perform tests on human or animal tissue samples and body fluids in order to determine whether or not a toxin is present. As well as possessing specialist scientific knowledge, forensic toxicologists are required to have strong communication and interpersonal skills (written and oral), IT skills, time management skills and the ability to work as part of a team.