Education and role of the toxicologist

Toxicology covers a very large scientific area, needing specialists in the main basic disciplines involved, and generalists with a large and practical overview. Academic education, consequently, should take this necessity int o account. This education is presently satisfactory in France, even if some adjustments are necessary, for the specialists but is inadequate for the g eneralists, whereas an important need exists in industry. It should be emph asized that toxicology is a profession and consequently practical experienc e is essential, as well as continuing education. In view of this situation, an evaluation of toxicologists in the course of their professional activit ies is necessary. In the USA, this evaluation is devolved to the American B oard of Toxicology and in Europe to the Eurotox Accreditation. In conclusio n of the Round Table, 8 recommendations are proposed.