This award recognizes an SOT member who has displayed a commitment to mentoring and whose advice and counsel have substantially enhanced the career development of toxicologists.
Robert Roy, PhD, DABT, ATS, is recognized with the 2024 SOT Toxicologist Mentoring Award for his championing of the scientific career development and advancement of those around him.
Dr. Roy retired from the 3M Company, as a Corporate Staff Toxicologist, after 26 years and is now an Adjunct Professor of Toxicology at the University of Minnesota and serves as the Managing Director of Northland Toxicology Consultants LLC. In all his roles, he has encouraged and advanced the careers of those around him. He is generous with his time—always willing to offer a positive word or email—and he has a genuine interest in seeing others succeed. His ability to move the focus off himself and onto others through his mentoring distinguishes Dr. Roy and is echoed by many of his mentees.
Dr. Roy is a longtime instructor for the American College of Toxicology course “Advanced Comprehensive Toxicology” and for the Society for Chemical Hazard Communication, where he teaches numerous courses including “Health Hazard Determination & Risk Assessment” and “Toxicology for Hazard Communication.” As a mentor, Dr. Roy is selfless with this knowledge and network, readily sharing his insights and encouragement with those around him to advance the science of toxicology.
Mentoring is selfless, and Dr. Roy’s commitment to those around him has continued through the years. In advancing the scientific careers of others, many toxicologists would advance into new roles elsewhere, but they would take with them Dr. Roy’s mentorship and encouragement to their new positions—and even continue to receive his advocacy and support.
An SOT member since 1992, Dr. Roy also is a founding member of the SOT Northland Regional Chapter. He was a member of the Continuing Education Committee (2016–2019) and is an active member of the Medical Device and Combination Product, Occupational and Public Health, and Risk Assessment Specialty Sections.
For lifelong dedication to all aspects of mentoring as a role model, cheerleader, teacher, and friend to so many toxicologists, Dr. Roy is presented the 2024 SOT Toxicologist Mentoring Award.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog about the awardee(s) is based on the nomination materials provided. This citation is being shared under the Award Committee Chair’s name as part of their official duties and should not be interpreted as their personal or professional opinions.