From Boca to the Bean - Reuniting in the Windy City!

SOFT-TIAFT 2026 Joint Meeting

September 19-24, 2026
Hilton Chicago • Chicago, IL

For the first time since the 2017 Joint Meeting in Boca Raton, Florida, SOFT and TIAFT will reunite—this time in the iconic city of Chicago! Join colleagues from around the world for a global celebration of forensic toxicology, innovation, and collaboration.

Science on the Skyline
Chicago sets the stage for an unforgettable experience:

  • Concurrent Sessions with International Perspectives
  • Hands-on Workshops, Cutting-edge Research, and Expert Panels
  • Expanded Networking in a World-class City

Explore the culture, cuisine, and character of Chicago while connecting with toxicologists from across the globe!

Planning Committee Members 

Scientific Program Coordinators
Donna Coy
Brigitte Desharnais
Suman Rana 
Jennifer Schumann 

Workshop Program Coordinators
Craig Chatterton
Sue Pearring
Karen Scott

 

About the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT)

SOFT is a professional scientific community dedicated to advancing forensic toxicology through collaboration, education, professional development, and research in support of justice and public health.

Mission: To promote the advancement of forensic toxicology through community and professional growth.

Vision: To enhance justice and public health through excellence in forensic toxicology.

History: SOFT began in 1970 as an informal meeting of toxicologists led by Abe Freireich in Long Island, NY. The success of these early gatherings led to the formation of an official organization in 1974, with Dr. Jane Speaker presiding over the first formal meeting. SOFT became incorporated and tax-exempt in 1983 and has since grown to include newsletters, educational awards, workshops, and a website—while maintaining the collaborative spirit of its origins. 

 

About TIAFT (The International Association of Forensic Toxicologists)

Founded in London on April 21, 1963, TIAFT promotes global collaboration and research in forensic toxicology. The founding officers included Drs. E.C.G. Clarke, Alan S. Curry, Ian Holden, and Fred Rieders. The first newsletter, Bulletin of the International Association of Forensic Toxicologists, was published in November 1963.

Today, TIAFT has around 1,800 members worldwide, supported by about 50 Regional Representatives. Members come from diverse professional backgrounds, including legal medicine, hospitals, law enforcement, and sports doping labs.

Activities and Programs:

  • Hosts annual and regional scientific meetings.
  • Publishes a triannual Bulletin.
  • Encourages young scientist involvement through a dedicated committee and presentation awards.
  • Presents the Alan Curry Award, TIAFT Achievement Award (for members under 46), and the Randall Baselt Award for the best postmortem interpretation paper.

Support Initiatives:
TIAFT offers travel grants, a visiting scientist program, and book donations to assist members in developing countries.