What is the mission of DTSS?

The objectives of the Dermal Toxicology Specialty Section are to provide a forum for the interaction of individuals involved in risk assessment, pharmacokinetics, dermal penetration/ absorption, hypersensitivity and dermal toxicity, regulatory issues, basic skin biology and other professionals working in the field of dermal research. Members who wish to receive more information on the specialty section should contact George DeGeorge by e-mail.

President's Message

As the President of the Dermal Toxicology Specialty Section (DTSS), on behalf of the Executive Council, I’d like to recognize the contributions of the leadership that has guided DTSS since its inception in 2000. Since that time, we have had tremendous contributions from many leaders in the field of dermal toxicology that have been willing to share their busy scientific lives as officers and committee members in our specialty section. We thank them! We appreciate their efforts!

The purpose of the DTSS is to serve as a focal point for SOT members interested in Dermal Toxicology and provide an environment for networking and research collaboration. My personal goals for this year are 1) to increase and enhance student participation and 2) to encourage participation in the exciting opportunities to enhance visibility of Dermal Toxicology that are becoming available.

Our membership has increased to 152 members. Specialty Section membership (first one) is free for students, and it’s a great way for them to get to know people in the field, network and find jobs. Please encourage all your students and postdocs to join so they can also compete for travel and poster/paper awards.

One of the most important functions of the Specialty Sections is to develop proposals for scientific sessions at the annual meetings. Bill Reifenrath (Vice President) is the chair of the Program Committee and he is responsible for facilitating development of proposals for Symposia, Workshops, and Continuing Education Courses for the 2010 meeting. Please contact Bill if you would like to participate in the Program Committee or have ideas for proposals.

We have an informative Newsletter that is sent to the Specialty Section membership at least twice a year. In one issue of this Newsletter, published papers in the area of dermal toxicology over the past year by all Specialty Section members are listed. Jeff Yourick (VP-elect) is chair of the Communication Committee that is responsible for the Newsletter and the Web site. Please contact Jeff if you have announcements or ideas for the newsletter or Web site. If you have any ideas about how DTSS can serve you better, please contact me or one of the other members of the executive council:

President: George DeGeorge
President-Elect: Bill Reifenrath
Vice President: Jeff Yourick
Secretary-Treasurer: Carol Sabourin
Senior Councilor: Jens Mortensen
Junior Councilor: Cynthia Ryan
Past President: Carol Auletta
Postdoctoral Representative: Dae Joon Kim
Student Representatives: Lauren Mordasky Markell

Best Regards,
George DeGeorge
DTSS President