Co-author: Sandrine Deglin
The 2025 SOT Annual Meeting and ToxExpo in Orlando, Florida, will feature an interactive Engagement Session entitled “Facing Inconvenient Truths: How the Current Toxicology Research Ecosystem Limits Its Potential for Public and Environmental Health Protection” on Wednesday, March 19, 1:30 pm to 4:15 pm. This session and the panel will bring together experts from various sectors, including academia, government, industry, and early-career researchers.
Toxicology plays a critical role in protecting human and environmental health; yet, the field faces systemic obstacles that may hinder its progress. While scientific advancements continue, structural inefficiencies in research funding, regulatory science, interdisciplinary collaboration, and public engagement could be limiting its full potential. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensuring that toxicology research aligns with real-world human and ecological health needs.
To assess whether toxicology is effectively serving its intended purpose, several fundamental questions must be considered. For example, one could ask:
These questions underscore the need for a critical assessment of how the research ecosystem supports—or potentially inhibits—progress in toxicology.
Session Objectives:
Call to Action
We invite all attendees to engage in this crucial conversation. By recognizing the obstacles our field encounters and collaboratively developing solutions, we can enhance toxicology’s influence and guide its evolution to more effectively tackle current health and environmental challenges. Bring your: