A toxicologist is a scientist who studies the adverse effects of chemical, physical, or biological agents on living organisms and ecosystems. Their work involves identifying and characterizing the nature and mechanisms of these toxic effects, evaluating the risks associated with exposure to such agents, and developing strategies to prevent or mitigate those risks. Toxicologists may specialize in areas like environmental toxicology, clinical toxicology, or forensic toxicology, contributing to fields like public health, environmental protection, and drug safety.
Toxicologist meaning with examples
- The environmental toxicologist investigated the effects of pesticide runoff on the local aquatic ecosystem, analyzing water samples and studying the health of fish populations to determine the extent of contamination and potential long-term consequences for wildlife.
- A clinical toxicologist was consulted when a patient presented with unusual symptoms after ingesting a substance; they worked to identify the toxin and recommend appropriate treatment strategies to neutralize its harmful effects and prevent further damage.
- Forensic toxicologists analyzed samples from a crime scene, using advanced analytical techniques to identify the presence and levels of illicit drugs or poisons, providing crucial evidence for legal proceedings and cause of death determinations.
- As part of their research, the toxicologist studied the effects of various heavy metals on the development of neurological disorders in children, publishing findings that helped inform public health guidelines on safe exposure levels.
- Pharmaceutical companies employ toxicologists to evaluate the safety of new drug candidates through extensive preclinical testing, ensuring that the potential risks are thoroughly assessed before clinical trials on human subjects begin.