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SOT Toxicologists of African Origin Welcomes Your Participation
The Toxicologists of African Origin (TAO-SIG) was launched at the 2008 SOT Annual Meeting held in Seattle, Washington, bringing the number of SIGs within the Society to six. The specific objectives of the TAO-SIG are:
- To promote career development opportunities for toxicologists of African origin, and to increase the recruitment and retention of Africans and African Americans entering the profession of toxicological sciences,
- To promote information exchange, collegiality, and networking among toxicologists and related professionals of African origin; and to recognize the accomplishments of toxicologists of African origin,
- To propose, develop, and sponsor scientific and educational programs. These would include but are not limited to: symposia, workshops, poster and platform sessions, continuing education courses, and informational sessions which reflect current scientific and policy issues relevant to populations of African origin,
- To enhance focus within SOT on environmental and public health issues relevant to populations of African origin, and
- To act as a liaison to other SOT organizations regarding toxicological issues that are relevant to populations of African origin.
Attendance at the launching mixer exceeded expectations with more than 100 attendees. The event also provided a forum for the President of the African Society of Toxicological Sciences (ASTS), Dr. Sanmi Areola, to honor the many members of the Society who have supported and contributed to ASTS over the years. ASTS co-funded the mixer and played an integral part in founding the TAO-SIG.
An interim Executive Committee for TAO-SIG was also announced that includes Bernard Gadagbui (President), Marquea King (Vice President), Tony Ndifor (Treasurer/Secretary), Antonio Baines (Councilor), Mildred William-Johnson (Councilor), and Abe Dalu (Councilor). A postdoctoral representative is currently being sought.
News Update
- Consistent with the objectives of TAO-SIG to contribute program items at the meetings, a proposal titled "Career Opportunities and Transitions in Toxicology" sponsored by TAO-SIG and the Postdoctoral Assembly, has been accepted for the Education-Career Development Sessions at the 2009 SOT Annual Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland. This session will highlight career options for graduate students and toxicologists and offer insights into how to successfully transition between employment sectors.
- A TAO-SIG Web site is under construction and should be running prior to the 2009 Annual Meeting.
- Our strength is in our membership. We strongly urge you and your colleagues, friends, etc., to visit the SOT Membership Renewal and add TAO-SIG to your SOT membership. Students are entitled to one free membership in a SIG. Please exercise this option.
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