VCU Department of Forensic Science hosts the Society of Forensic Toxicologists annual meeting

By Mike Porter

The Virginia Commonwealth University Department of Forensic Science is hosting the annual meeting of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists with experts from around the world in attendance.

The Society of Forensic Toxicologists 2010 Annual Meeting is being held from Oct. 18 through Oct. 22 at the Richmond Marriott and the Greater Richmond Convention Center. While not open to the public, it presents media with an opportunity to speak with experts about forensic toxicology.

The Society of Forensic Toxicologists is an organization composed of practicing forensic toxicologists and those interested in the discipline for the purpose of promoting and developing forensic toxicology. This year’s meeting has attracted about 1,000 participants.

Forensic toxicologists are scientists who analyze biological fluids and tissues for drugs or poisons and interpret the information in a judicial context.

Faculty experts from VCU will include Michelle Peace, Ph.D., associate chair of the Department of Forensic Science and Alphonse Poklis, Ph.D., affiliate professor in forensic science, chemistry, and pharmacology and toxicology.