Courses in areas of specialization can be taken in graduate school to obtain M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in toxicology. Toxicologists can work in research positions at universities and private industry and applied areas primarily in private industry and government. Research in toxicology can include studies of the toxicity of chemicals on the various systems of the body including nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, respiratory system, immune system, and cardiovascular system. Such research can assess the effects of toxicity on such target organs as the kidneys, lungs, liver, heart, eyes, etc. Forensic toxicology is a hybrid of analytical chemistry and fundamental toxicological principles.
Clinical toxicology is concerned with the effects of drugs on disease or with abuse.
The clinical toxicologist provides important information to emergency room physicians and nurses. Environmental toxicologists usually study the effects of pollutants on wildlife and subsequently on the ecosystem, including the effects of environmental pollutants on humans.