Toxicologists

Employment opportunities for toxicologists are expected to continue to be good. The growing use of chemicals and pharmaceuticals by society has created demand for trained professionals to determine and limit the health risks associated with potential toxins. Toxicologists are also contributing their knowledge during the coronavirus pandemic. As described in an article by medical professionals, "Medical Toxicology and COVID-19: Our Role in a Pandemic," while medical toxicology is not usually associated with viral pandemics, toxicologists are still able to help. "Optimizing the treatment of poisoned patients, minimizing potentially dangerous polypharmacy, clarifying situations of diagnostic uncertainty, and limiting strains on hospital resources are all skills that [toxicologists] bring to the table." In addition, concerns over bioterrorism and the potential use of chemical weapons will create more demand for toxicologists to help develop new vaccines and other antibiotics.

The Department of Labor predicts that medical scientists, including toxicologists, will have employment growth that is faster than the average for all other occupations through 2029. Job opportunities should be greatest in large urban areas where many large hospitals, chemical manufacturers, and university research facilities are located. Those with the most training and experience will have the best employment prospects.