Forensic Toxicology Training
Forensic toxicologists assist with criminal and legal cases by analyzing body fluids and tissues to detect drugs and poisons. In death investigations, their findings can help determine whether a person ingested poisons, overdosed on prescription medications, used illegal drugs or took substances with dangerous interactions. They also help determine whether alcohol or drugs contributed to an accident or crime. Expertise in forensic toxicology draws from extensive education and training in natural science.
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Education
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Forensic toxicologists possess at least a bachelor's degree, ideally with coursework in chemistry and pharmacology, according to the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) website. However, the AAFS notes many forensic toxicologists begin their education and careers in other fields, for example medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and clinical chemistry. Many forensic toxicologists have a doctorate or master's degree in a natural science.
Certification
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The American Board of Forensic Toxicology (ABFT) certifies forensic toxicologists at different levels, depending on whether candidates possess an undergraduate or graduate degree. ABFT diplomate certification requires at least a doctorate in a natural science from a regionally accredited institution. Specialist certification requires at least a bachelor's degree. In addition, both certifications require education in biology, chemistry, pharmacology or toxicology, as well as professional experience, according to the ABFT website. Forensic toxicologists at both levels must complete examinations.
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Function
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Education and certification ensure forensic toxicologists meet high standards of accuracy and ethics. The ABFT examination, for example, ensures certified forensic toxicologists possess a solid understanding of laboratory practices, drugs and pathology specimens from autopsies. Uniform standards improve the image of the field, particularly when forensic toxicologists testify as expert witnesses in trials.
Misconceptions
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A 2005 article published by the American Society for the Advancement of Science cautions that despite portrayals on popular entertainment shows, toxicologists cannot provide instant results. Future forensic toxicologists should take into account they may sometimes face an impatient and upset public--conditions they might not have faced during their education.
Significance
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Education, training and certification ensure forensic toxicologists provide accurate analysis within sound ethical guidelines. After all, their findings allow them to advise medical examiners and courts about the significance of substances found in a victim's or suspect's body. This requires accuracy, but also extreme caution to avoid conflicts of interest and to maintain honesty, confidentiality and competence, states the ABFT.
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References
- American Academy of Forensic Sciences: Resources: So You Want to Be a Forensic Scientist!
- American Board of Forensic Toxicology: Certification as a Diplomate of the Board
- American Board of Forensic Toxicology: Certification as a Forensic Toxicology Specialist
- American Board of Forensic Toxicology: ABFT Examination Study Guide
- American Society for the Advancement of Science: Pathologists Say Forensics TV Creates Unrealistic Expectations
Resources
- Photo Credit poison et chimie image by Danielle Bonardelle from Fotolia.com
