The Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT) offers several categories of membership to support individuals at all stages of their careers in forensic toxicology. Whether you are a student exploring the field, an experienced professional, or a long-time member transitioning into retirement, there is a membership type tailored to your background and level of involvement.

Each category has specific eligibility requirements, benefits, and sponsorship guidelines. Please review the details below to determine the membership type that best fits your qualifications and professional status. If you are a current member seeking to update your membership category, information about membership promotion is also provided.

Please feel free to reach out to the Membership Committee with any questions or if you need assistance with your Membership Application. 

 

Full Members
Full Members are individuals who meet the qualifications outlined below, are actively engaged in forensic toxicology at the time of application, and have demonstrated their ability to function as forensic toxicologists as recognized by SOFT. Full Members pay annual dues and have full voting privileges.

Eligibility Requirements:
Applicants must possess the following educational background and professional experience in forensic toxicology:

  • Ph.D. with at least 1 year of experience
  • M.S. with at least 2 years of experience
  • B.S. or B.A. with at least 3 years of experience

Fee: $150 application fee (applied toward annual dues if approved)
Sponsors Required: Two Full Members of SOFT in good standing

Associate Members
Associate Membership is available to individuals who do not meet the criteria for Full Membership but demonstrate an interest in forensic toxicology. Associate Members pay dues, but do not have voting privileges and are not eligible for Emeritus status.

Fee: $150 application fee (applied toward annual dues if approved)
Sponsors Required: One Full Member of SOFT in good standing

Student Members
Student Affiliate Membership is open to students pursuing degrees in fields related to forensic toxicology. Students who are actively engaged in forensic toxicology and pursuing advanced degrees should apply for Full or Associate Membership instead. Student Members pay reduced dues and do not have voting privileges.

Fee: $40 application fee (applied toward annual dues if approved)
Sponsors Required: One Full Member of SOFT in good standing or an academic advisor

Retired Members
Retired Membership is available to Full or Charter Members who have maintained SOFT membership for at least 10 years and are age 65 or older. Retired Members retain voting privileges and are exempt from dues but do not receive a subscription to the Journal of Analytical Toxicology (JAT). A JAT subscription may be added for $40 annually.

Fee: No application fee (optional $40 for JAT subscription)
Sponsors Required: None

Emeritus Members
Emeritus Membership is available to Full or Charter Members who have maintained SOFT membership for at least 25 years and are age 65 or older. Emeritus Members retain voting privileges and are exempt from dues but do not receive a JAT subscription. A JAT subscription may be added for $40 annually.

Fee: No application fee (optional $40 for JAT subscription)
Sponsors Required: None

Membership Promotion
Current SOFT members may request a promotion to another membership category at any time. Please refer to the membership requirements above to determine eligibility. There is no fee to apply for promotion; however, annual dues still apply.

Fee: No application fee
Sponsors Required:

  • Promotion to Full: Two Full Members of SOFT in good standing
  • Promotion to Associate: One Full Member of SOFT in good standing

Sponsorship Requirements
Each applicant must obtain a sponsor as part of the application process. Sponsors must be Full Members of SOFT in good standing. Student applicants may instead use an academic advisor as a sponsor. Sponsors must not be related to the applicant.

Sponsor Requirements by Membership Type:

  • Full Membership: Two Full SOFT Members in good standing
  • Associate Membership: One Full SOFT Member in good standing
  • Student Membership: One Full SOFT Member in good standing or an academic advisor
  • Retired/Emeritus Membership: No sponsor required