Once these toxic effects are found, we can find ways to properly manage or avoid them. In this way, toxicologists protect the health of humans, animals and the environment. These scientists find out whether particular substances are dangerous or safe to use in different situations. They determine how much of a substance could harm a human. animal or the environment. Toxicologists test chemicals found in products by using computers, cell cultures, animals and humans.
Medical toxicologists are physicians who are expert in treating people who have been poisoned.
Toxicologists work for companies that make consumer products or medicines. They teach and do research at universities. They work for government agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency to double-check and regulate the safety of chemicals and products. If you're interested in this career, explore science, biology, chemistry and math at school. You'll need good marks to enter a college program in toxicology.