SOFT Huestis & Smith Toxicology International Travel Award
About the Award
The SOFT Huestis & Smith Toxicology International Travel Award has been established to honor the enduring legacies of Dr. Marilyn A. Huestis and Dr. Michael L. Smith, two esteemed leaders in forensic toxicology. Their contributions to the field, ranging from groundbreaking research to leadership within SOFT and TIAFT, have paved the way for scientific advancements and international collaboration. This award seeks to continue their work by supporting SOFT members in attending and presenting their research at TIAFT annual meetings.
Award Objectives
This award aligns with the mission of SOFT to:
- Encourage professional development and global collaboration in forensic toxicology.
- Provide funding for SOFT members to present their research at TIAFT meetings.
- Promote networking, education, and the exchange of ideas between SOFT and TIAFT members.
- Support members with financial need, particularly those attending a TIAFT meeting for the first time.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- Be SOFT members in good standing for at least three years at the application deadline (or one year for student members).
- Submit a TIAFT-compatible abstract as part of the application. View the TIAFT guidelines here.
- Demonstrate financial need and explain the importance of attending the TIAFT meeting.
- Commit to attending all meeting sessions, poster presentations, and social events at the TIAFT meeting.
Note: Priority will be given to members who have never attended a TIAFT meeting.
Award Benefits
The award provides financial assistance, including:
- Round-trip travel to the TIAFT annual meeting.
- Accommodations for the duration of the meeting.
- Early bird registration fees, including access to the networking excursion and annual banquet.
- A $300 allowance for meals and incidentals not covered by the registration fee.
- Award recipients will also be recognized at the SOFT and TIAFT business meetings and on both organizations’ websites.
Application Process
- Prepare Your Abstract: As part of the application process, you must prepare a scientific abstract that meets TIAFT’s submission guidelines. This abstract is included with your SOFT application but should not be submitted to TIAFT directly at this stage.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the official SOFT application form. Provide details about your SOFT membership, financial need, and reasons for attending the TIAFT meeting.
- Submit Your Application: All materials must be submitted to the SOFT Awards Committee by the application deadline. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
- Notification and Abstract Submission: If you are selected for the award: You will be notified about additional instructions regarding official submission of your abstract to TIAFT. If you do not receive the award: You may still submit your abstract to TIAFT independently, following their abstract submission process and deadlines.
Selection Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on:
- The quality of the submitted abstract.
- Demonstrated financial need.
- Active participation in SOFT activities (e.g., meetings, webinars, committees).
- Previous attendance at SOFT and TIAFT events (priority given to first-time attendees of TIAFT meetings).
- A maximum of three awards will be given each year, with up to three additional backup awardees selected in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Reporting Requirements
Award recipients are required to:
- Attend all TIAFT annual meeting sessions, poster sessions, business meetings, and social events.
- Submit a brief report to ToxTalk within one month after the meeting, describing the value gained from their experience.
2025 Award
Applications are now open for TIAFT 2025. The application deadline is Monday, March 31, 2025.
The 62nd TIAFT Annual Meeting will be held November 23-28, 2025, in Auckland, New Zealand.
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