- History and Overview of the American Board of Toxicology

Since 1979, the American Board of Toxicology (ABT) has served to encourage the study of the science of toxicology and stimulate its advancement by establishing standards for professional practice. The ABT also prepares and administers procedures, including tests, for the implementation of these standards and to confer recognition upon those members of the profession who, measured against such standards, demonstrate competence. The objective of this presentation is to provide an overview of the history, vision, and mission of ABT. Additionally, this presentation will cover the practice analysis studies performed to identify the knowledge required for general toxicology and how the results of these studies informed the revised ABT Certification Examination. Finally, the presentation will discuss practical considerations, including eligibility criteria, test site locations, recertification criteria, and available resources.

- Advanced Certification in Toxicology

The Academy of Toxicological Sciences (ATS) was established in 1981 and is a leading international organization that certifies toxicologists according to the following categories: education, professional experience, leadership, demonstrated achievement, and scientific expertise. The peer-review evaluation for candidacy as an ATS Fellow focuses primarily on three areas: (1) Education and Experience; (2) Professional Practice; and (3) Professional Recognition.

Candidates for certification as a Fellow of the Academy are in the mid-to-late stages of their careers. Currently, there are 270 ATS-certified Fellows. What can ATS certification do for you? Certification as a Fellow of ATS enhances your creditability and professional standing as a toxicologist and provides advantages in opportunities for professional service and employment as well as professional and social networking. ATS certification is an important part of ensuring the scientific expertise and competent experience of professionals whose work informs and affects public welfare.

- Why become an ERT? Advantages to the Individual and to the Community

The European Register of Toxicologists (ERT) is an accreditation system that was initiated within Europe but is now recognized worldwide. ERT ensures that practicing toxicologists first achieve and then retain an appropriate level of professional competence to practice toxicology via education, training, and continued professional development. Overall, this advances our community by ensuring that the discipline of toxicology is respected and trusted within the scientific community. Membership of the ERT is increasingly expected within the European toxicology community as an accreditation held by those making key decisions on human and environmental safety. In some instances, European authorities have requested or required membership of the ERT to validate the status and credibility of toxicologists involved in submission work. Thus, it is a considerable advantage for toxicologists at all stages of their career to consider applying to join the ERT.

initiated within Europe but is now recognized worldwide. ERT ensures that practicing toxicologists first achieve and then retain an appropriate level of professional competence to practice toxicology via education, training, and continued professional development. Overall, this advances our community by ensuring that the discipline of toxicology is respected and trusted within the scientific community. Membership of the ERT is increasingly expected within the European toxicology community as an accreditation held by those making key decisions on human and environmental safety. In some instances, European authorities have requested or required membership of the ERT to validate the status and credibility of toxicologists involved in submission work. Thus, it is a considerable advantage for toxicologists at all stages of their career to consider applying to join the ERT.