EUROTOX's view regarding the ROLE and TRAINING of certified European registered toxicologists (ERT)

Toxicology's evolution from a traditional science of poisons to an extensive discipline has introduced complications and ambiguity in the definition of a scientific area of qualification and training. The need to define toxicology and to identify and standardise the roles and the profiles of practising toxicologists in order to certify the professional credibility of toxicologists has been recognised by national registries and certifying boards across the USA, Europe and Asia.Established in 1994, the EUROTOX Model (www.eurotox.com) has promoted the harmonisation of educational differences, practical experiences and common visions and requirements for the accreditation of toxicologists in Europe. Such harmonisation should be seen as an indispensable step towards the mutual recognition of registered toxicologists at a global level and to promote the development of shared educational and training programmes on a regional basis.A description of typical professional roles for toxicologists with required educational background, training and experience are presented in this paper and serve as the basis for the ERT templates, a self-evaluation tool for individuals seeking ERT recognition.