SOT 2013 General Information
San Antonio, Texas—Join Your SOT Colleagues in This Beautiful and Extraordinary City.
Why Attend the Annual Meeting?
The Society of Toxicology (SOT) 52nd Annual Meeting is the largest toxicology meeting and exhibition in the world, with an expected attendance of more than 7,300 scientists from academia, government, and industry from various countries around the globe. From the Plenary Opening Lecture and featured lectures to the wide range of scientific sessions and Continuing Education courses, the Annual Meeting offers an unparalleled depth of analysis and relevant toxicological issues. From basic to advanced topical issues, the thematic approach provides each attendee an opportunity to learn about emerging fields. Whether you are speaking in or chairing a session, honoring a colleague as the recipient of an SOT award, or collaborating with your peers at an SOT event, this meeting has something for every attendee. Plenary speaker includes Dr. Bruce Beutler (University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas) and Prof. Jeremy K. Nicholson, Imperial College London, United Kingdom.
You Will Want to Attend Because…
Innovative Perspectives
The SOT Annual Meeting provides the most complete and in-depth coverage of toxicology. The Scientific Program Committee’s (SPC) mission is to devise a scientific program that covers the diverse areas of science that toxicology encompasses. The meeting is the venue for toxicologists to learn about the scientific advances that have taken place over the past 12 months. The Scientific Program Committee reviews more than 2,500 abstracts to deliver the most comprehensive and up-to-date program imaginable.
In-Depth Analysis
The Scientific Program Committee has devised a thematic program that encompasses five themes of topical interest. This year, these themes are:
Five scientific themes:
- Application of Systems Biology to Toxicology
- Biomarkers for Exposure Assessment, Safety Evaluation, and Translational Medicine
- Effects of Nanomaterials on Biological Systems
- Molecular Basis of Genetic Variability and Susceptibility to Toxicants
- Regulatory Science: Advancing New Approaches for Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment
Countless Networking Opportunities
With more than 7,300 toxicologists from more than 50 countries in attendance, this five-day event allows everyone the opportunity to network with colleagues and leading scientists from around the world.
A Global Audience
More than 20 percent of the attendees come from countries as far away as Australia, Egypt, China, Latin America, and Africa. Toxicologists can explore lessons learned, and share scientific findings, and novel approaches with other toxicologists at this annual event, which is designed to showcase the year’s latest in research.
Value
The SOT Annual Meeting is cost-effective, with low registration fees, and air and hotel fares that the Society has negotiated to ensure that as many toxicologists as possible have the opportunity to attend.
Why Attend ToxExpo?
An Exhibition Extraordinaire
ToxExpo is the profession’s largest trade show of its kind. Attendees and exhibitors from around the globe gather to exchange ideas and debut cutting-edge products, services, and technologies. Toxicologists and industry professionals have the unparalleled opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge on the latest advances from more than 360 exhibitors during this unique three-day exhibition.
The following are the exhibit hours for the 2013 ToxExpo in San Antonio, Texas:
| Monday |
9:00 AM–4:30 PM |
| Tuesday |
8:30 AM–4:30 PM |
| Wednesday |
8:30 AM–4:30 PM |
ToxExpo Time!—In addition to the standard Exhibit Hall hours and poster presentation times, one hour of dedicated networking time has been allotted in the scientific program for attendees to visit with exhibitors. ToxExpo Time will take place on Tuesday, March 12, from 12:30 pm–1:30 pm.
$500 Daily Prize Drawing!
Drawings to take place on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday in the Exhibit Hall. $500 American Express Gift card awarded each day. Drop your business cards in the ToxExpo prize drawing boxes found in all Diamond Level Sponsor booths.
Daily Access All Year
ToxExpo continues throughout the year. Visit ToxExpo.com for all your toxicology-related science information and data as well as information about current exhibitors. The site offers access 24/7, 365 days per year to resource for toxicologists worldwide. ToxExpo is a rich resource for the working scientist, the decision maker, the student, or anyone looking for the best products and services that toxicology has to offer.
A Great Opportunity for Exhibitors
We’ve Got the Numbers You Want
We are expecting to attract more than 7,300 scientists and industry professionals to attend SOT’s 52nd Annual Meeting and ToxExpo. What better opportunity to…
- meet face-to-face.
- build relationships with new prospects.
- network with other exhibiting companies.
New Faces/New Leads Every Year
Research shows that 55 percent of the professional toxicologists who will attend the 2013 Annual Meeting and ToxExpo did not attend the 2012 Meeting in San Francisco, California.
Online Marketplace at ToxExpo.com
ToxExpo exhibitors are listed online year around to increase your visibility and exposure to your target audience. It’s a rich resource for all the services and products toxicologists need throughout the year.
ToxExpo Time!
In addition to the standard Exhibit Hall hours and poster presentation times, one hour of dedicated networking time has been allotted in the scientific program for attendees to visit with exhibitors. ToxExpo Time will take place on Tuesday, March 12, from 12:30 pm–1:30 pm.
ToxExpo Attendees Are Engaged in One or More of the Following Areas of Research
- Biological Modeling
- Biomarkers
- Biotechnology
- Carcinogenesis
- Cardiovascular Toxicology
- Comparative and Veterinary
- Clinical and Translational Toxicology
- Dermal Toxicology
- Drug Discovery Toxicology
- Epigenetics
- Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues
- Food Safety
- Immunotoxicology
- In Vitro and Alternative Methods
- Inflammation and Disease
- Inhalation and Respiratory
|
- Mechanisms
- Medical Device
- Metals
- Mixtures
- Molecular Biology
- Nanotoxicology
- Neurodegenerative Disease
- Neurotoxicology
- Occupational and Public Health
- Ocular Toxicology
- Regulatory and Safety Evaluation
- Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology
- Risk Assessment
- Stem Cells
- Toxicologic and Exploratory Pathology
|
For more information on exhibiting at the largest toxicology trade show in the world, please visit ToxExpo.com, or contact Tina Giovanini at 703.438.3115 ext. 1454.
Weather
San Antonio has a mild climate. The typical temperature range for March is an average low of 48 degrees Fahrenheit and an average high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. For an up-to-date, detailed weather forecast, visit the National Weather Service Forecast Office website.
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
The SOT 52nd Annual Meeting and ToxExpo will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center located at 200 East Market Street on the River Walk in downtown San Antonio. The Center, named for the late US Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez, was originally built as part of HemisFair ‘68.
Recording, Photography, Video-Taping, and Cell Phone Policies
Each year, we welcome more than 7,300 attendees to the Society of Toxicology’s Annual Meeting and ToxExpo. With almost 3,000 presentations, this meeting is the largest international forum for toxicological research. The Society does not permit photography or the electronic capture of scientific sessions in meeting rooms or the Exhibit Hall without the consent of the session chair and the
presenter(s)/author(s). This policy also includes photographing colleagues against the backdrop of scientific posters on display without the express consent of the presenting author(s).
- Photographing or video taping in the Exhibit Hall is prohibited.
- Electronic capture of scientific sessions by any method is prohibited.
- All cell phones and electronic devices must be put on mute while attending scientific sessions.
The policies adopted above will be enforced by the Society. Those individuals who do not comply will be asked to leave the session or Exhibit Hall floor. If you have any questions regarding these policies, please contact the SOT Headquarters Office.
First Aid and Security
If an emergency should occur while at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, proceed directly to the nearest house phone, located throughout the facility, and dial 7773 for security. You will be connected directly to the 24-hour manned security department at the Convention Center. From your cell phone, dial 210.207.7773 which will connect directly to security.
A First Aid room will be located in Room H62 just inside Exhibit Hall C.
A First Aid Administrator will be on duty:
| Sunday |
7:00 AM–8:00 PM |
| Monday |
7:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Tuesday |
7:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Wednesday |
7:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Thursday |
7:00 AM–5:00 PM |
Please note that in accordance with regulations, the First Aid Administrator is not permitted to dispense any medication.
Global Gallery of Toxicology
Toxicology societies from all around the world are invited to participate in the Global Gallery of Toxicology. Now in its third year, posters showcasing the formation, key accomplishments, strategic initiatives, and current and future activities of these sister societies will be prominently displayed during the meeting. SOT and these societies aim to increase the reliance of international decision makers on the science of toxicology to advance human health and disease prevention. For more information, please contact Katie Moore 703.438.3115 ext. 1423.
Safety and Security
The possibility of demonstrators is very real given the nature of our conference. Events of this nature range from verbal confrontations, protests, strikes, to riots. We recommend the following procedures in the event of demonstrations:
- Have your name badge available upon entering the Convention Center. Wear your name badge in the Convention Center. When leaving the facility, remove it so as to blend with other people.
- If you see a demonstration or protest beginning, please contact any member of the SOT Annual Meeting staff and they will initiate an SOT response. If you see actions that appear threatening, notify the nearest security officer.
- Do not engage, defend either side, or subdue person(s) in any type of disturbance. Demonstrators are usually trying to attract media attention. Don’t help them!
- SOT representatives will respond to media inquires. Do not participate in interviews or other media responses.
- In the unlikely event that outsiders disrupt a scientific session or other event, SOT security officials have developed a contingency plan. Please follow directions from the chairperson and avoid becoming involved in the situation.
Safety Tips
Walk “smart” when you leave the Convention Center:
- Know your destination and the best way to reach it.
- Travel along sidewalks in lighted areas at night, and don’t walk alone.
- Establish a “buddy” system with another delegate to the convention.
- Share schedules and check up on each other periodically.
- Build your awareness of unknown surroundings by reviewing local information.
- Laptop computers are attractive, easy targets for thieves. Be sure your laptop is in a secure place.
- Jackets with pockets provide a convenient alternative for women to reduce the chance for lost or stolen handbags.
Our first priority is safety. The best way to stay safe is to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid situations where you feel uncomfortable.
Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities
The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and most of the SOT hotels are accessible to persons with disabilities. If you require special services, please mark the appropriate box on the Annual Meeting Registration Form.
LSA Interpretation Services
800.305.9673 | www.lsaweb.com
Language Services Associates is a nationwide full service firm providing translators and interpreters in 180 languages.
Wheelchair and Scooter Rentals:
If you require more information about accessibility, please contact Heidi Prange at SOT Headquarters: 703.438.3115 ext. 1424.
Child Care Services
Child care services will not be provided during the Annual Meeting. Arrangements may be made by contacting the concierge desk at your hotel. To ensure safety, children are not permitted in session rooms, the Exhibit Hall, or the poster area.
Attire
The official attire for the Annual Meeting is business casual. No coat or tie is required! We encourage you to bring comfortable clothing and shoes. Because meeting rooms may seem cold, please bring a sweater or jacket and/or dress in layers.
Badge
Annual Meeting attendees who register by January 25, 2013, will receive their badge in the mail. Attendees who already have their 2013 Annual Meeting badges do not need to stand in the registration line. If you have registered by the meeting date and have NOT received your badge by mail, or need a replacement badge, go to the “BADGE PICK UP ONLY” registration counter to pick up your badge. You will be asked to show a photo ID.
If you have not registered for the meeting before you arrive in San Antonio please complete the on-site Registration Form found at the kiosks in the registration area and proceed to the appropriate registration line.
All attendees should stop by the registration area to pick up their registration materials.
Business Center
The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center Business Center is conveniently located on the street level directly across the Lobby Bridge from Exhibit Hall A. The Business Center offers services such as UPS shipping, faxing, common office supplies, Internet access, high-quality black and white copying, printing, and uploading documents from a memory stick or CD.
Business Center/UPS Store at
Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center
Tel: 210.258.8950
Fax: 210.258.8951
Email: store4180@theupsstore.com
Business Center Hours:
| Monday–Friday |
9:00 AM–6:30 PM |
| Saturday |
8:30 AM–5:00 PM |
| Sunday |
Closed |
Need to print your boarding pass, get dinner recommendations, or find things to do in the city? Visit the Information Services Center, also located on the street level, or any of the Information/Tourist booths located throughout the Convention Center.
Social Events
The SOT Annual Meeting hosts several social events for student and postdoctoral fellows. For a full listing of events please visit the Social Events section of the Annual Meeting website.
Receipt of the Program and The Toxicologist
In an effort to reduce resources and cost, the printed Program with an electronic version of The Toxicologist will not be automatically mailed to all registrants and members. If you wish to receive your printed Program before the meeting (request made by February 15), please select the “I want to receive the printed Program before the meeting by mail” checkbox on the registration form and these items will be mailed in late February (in the US and Canada only). These items will also be available from the SOT website in February and for pick up on-site.
In 2013, registrants will receive the Annual Meeting abstracts in the electronic version of The Toxicologist as part of the Annual Meeting registration fee. Annual Meeting attendees may purchase a printed version of The Toxicologist 2013 for $25 per copy. You may preorder on the registration form and pick up a copy on-site or wait to purchase a copy on-site (available until supplies last). The Toxicologist is available for download free of charge. There will be computer kiosks set up in the Exhibit Hall to search the electronic version of The Toxicologist at the Annual Meeting.
Annual Meeting Sponsorship
Meeting Sponsorship
The Society would like to invite your organization to be a sponsor of the 2013 Annual Meeting. SOT appreciates the generous contributions of sponsors that make the SOT Annual Meeting possible. Sponsor names are prominently displayed on the Annual Meeting website, as well as in print materials that are distributed before and during the Annual Meeting. Sponsorship is also recognized through signage displayed around the Convention Center during the Annual Meeting.
There are four levels of sponsorship available: Diamond ($10,000 or more), Platinum ($5,000–$9,999), Gold ($2,500–$4,999), Silver ($2,000–$2,499), and Contributors ($1,000–$1,999).
View the Annual Meeting Sponsorship Opportunities for more detailed information, or contact Tina Giovanini at 703.438.3115 ext. 1454.
2013 Annual Meeting Sponsors
ToxExposure Sponsorship
The goal of ToxExpo’s management team is to make sure that you make the most of your presence at the exhibition. ToxExpo is the largest event of its kind and being part of the show is only half of the solution. Marketing plans need to be well-thought out with a strategy that includes pre- and postmeeting promotions for you to reach your return on investment and drive attendees out of the aisles and into your booth.
You will find an entire menu of sponsorship opportunities designed to assist your organization in establishing a leadership position in the 2013 exhibition.
To help you get the most out of your marketing dollars, contact Tina Giovanini at 703.438.3115 ext. 1454.
Career Resource and Development Services
The Society is committed to providing SOT members with a unique and effective way to locate a position that matches your skills and training. To help you reach this objective, the Society provides the Career Resource and Development (CRAD) online Job Bank and on-site Job Bank Center. These services along with others, are offered free of charge to all SOT members.
SOT’s online Job Bank makes it easy for candidates and employers alike to access the CRAD service. Registrations are continuously processed and valid for six months. Once registered, candidates may search the listing of available jobs and employers may browse candidate profiles. During the registration period, users can update their listings or search the database as often as they wish. Communication with a desired employer or candidate can even be made via email messages created within the system.
The CRAD service is an important part of the Annual Meeting, providing a coordinated service for information regarding career opportunities and qualified candidates. Please do your job and candidate searches before you arrive at the meeting. Access to the Job Bank in the Convention Center will be limited to the availability of 3–4 computers at the meeting. Employers and candidates will have access to computers, but computer use will be restricted to short searches for updates or new information.
Although preregistration is encouraged, registrations will be accepted at the Annual Meeting. All users with current registrations at the time of the Annual Meeting will be permitted to use the service.
For additional information contact Kevin Merritt at 703.438.3115 ext. 1601.
Chat with an Expert
Date and time varies by group (Meet at the Bulletin Board in Registration Area)
This event is an informal gathering of a small group of students and a Toxicology Expert. Sign up via the Chat with an Expert section of the SOT website. The groups are matched by research interests and the Expert for each group identifies a time and place to assemble. Details for the group meeting will be sent advance of meeting.
Food Services
Coffee Breaks
The exhibiting companies are pleased to sponsor complimentary coffee in the Exhibit Halls C–D between 9:00 am–10:00 am Monday through Wednesday. See Exhibit Halls C–D signage for locations.
Concessions
Concession stands are available in the Exhibit Halls C–D Monday 8:30 am–4:30 pm and Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 am–4:30 pm. Breakfast and lunch items will be available for purchase, as well as coffee, soda, bottled water, and snacks. Seating is available in the Concession areas in the Exhibit Halls C–D. See the ToxExpo Floor Plans for locations. Concessions are run by the RK Group, providing outstanding and delectable food and beverage in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center since 1971.
Restaurants
View the full Restaurant Listing for San Antonio, Texas.
Internet Access at the Convention Center
SOT knows the importance of staying connected to your daily activities while attending the Annual Meeting and provides several ways for you to access the Internet while at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
@SOT Center—Internet Access and Technology Training Center
SOT will provide computers you can use to access the Internet. These computers are available to attendees in the @SOT Center, located outside the ToxExpo entrance.
Free Wireless Internet Access
Free wireless Internet access for is available in designated “Wi-Fi Zones” located in ToxExpo Exhibit Halls C–D. The network name is SOT2013.
Free wireless Internet is also available in the common areas including the Entrance Lobby, East and West Registrations, foyer outside of Meeting Rooms 208 through 218. The network name is free internet.
Internet is available for purchase by the attendee at $12.95 per day, per device everywhere in the building, except in the exhibit halls. To connect, go to view available wireless networks on your laptop, connect to Instant Internet network, and open your browser and the splash page for Instant Internet will load. Follow the directions and you will be connected. A receipt for the purchase will be emailed to you.
Lost and Found
Lost and found articles may be taken to the SOT Headquarters Office, Room 202, of the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Any items left in the SOT Headquarters Office after 11:30 am, Thursday, March 14, will be taken back to SOT Headquarters. If you do not remove your poster at the end of your session, you will find it on the “Poster Retrieval Tables” located at rear of the Exhibit Hall C–D to the left and right of poster sections 300 and 500. Any posters left behind at 4:30 pm on Wednesday will be taken to SOT Headquarters Office, Room 202, Thursday morning, March 14. All posters not claimed by 1:00 pm on Thursday, March 14 will be recycled.
Coat/Luggage Check
For your convenience, a luggage/coat check will be available in the East Registration area. The luggage/coat check will be open Sunday, March 10 through Thursday, March 14. There will be a fee of $2 per item checked. Laptops, cameras, and other electronics will not be accepted.
Hours of operation:
| Sunday |
8:00 AM–8:00 PM |
| Monday |
7:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| Tuesday |
7:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| Wednesday |
7:00 AM–6:00 PM |
| Thursday |
7:00 AM–12:00 Noon |
Coat/luggage check hours are subject to change.
Media Support Services
The Society of Toxicology (SOT) welcomes accredited representatives of Media Organizations. Journalist receive complimentary credentials for all meeting sessions as well as media kits. Interviews can be arranged with Council, members, and speakers. A press room will be available for reporters. For more information on how to register for the Annual Meeting, visit the Just for the Media section of the website. For more information about the program and room location, please contact:
Martha Lindauer
SOT Headquarters: 703.438.3115
Session Etiquette for Attendees
Attendees are encouraged to ask questions following the presentations by speakers or at the direction of the moderator. Given the importance of the scientific program to attendees and out of respect for the presenters, we ask that you adhere to the following rules of etiquette:
- Cell phones and other electronic devices should be set on mute.
- Electronic capture of scientific sessions by any method is prohibited.
- Inviting children under the age of 15 and guest/spouse registrants into the Exhibit Hall is prohibited. Session chair must provide consent for the guest/spouse or child to attend the session.
These policies will be endorced by the Society. Individuals who do not comply will be asked to leave session.
Any items that are left behind in any of the rooms should be taken to the SOT Headquarters Office, Room 202.
If you have any questions regarding these policies, please contact the SOT Headquarters Office.
Registration Policies
By registering for the 2013 SOT Annual Meeting, you are agreeing to the terms and conditions of the Annual Meeting Policies.
Speaker Ready Room
More information can be found on the Presentation Instructions page.
SOT Headquarters Office
The SOT Headquarters Office is located in the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, Room 202 on the Concourse Level. SOT leadership and staff utilize this office to conduct SOT business whil on-site. Use the office to report or reclaim lost and found items at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.
SOT Headquarters Office hours:
| Saturday |
4:00 PM–7:00 PM |
| Sunday |
7:00 AM–5:30 PM |
| Monday |
7:00 AM–5:00 PM |
| Tuesday |
7:00 AM–4:30 PM |
| Wednesday |
7:00 AM–4:30 PM |
| Thursday |
7:00 AM–12:00 Noon |
© 2012–2013 Society of Toxicology. All right reserved.