Lead Scientist - Toxicology

Job Title

Lead Scientist - Toxicology

Agency

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

Department

Analytical Chemistry

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Job Description Summary

The Lead Scientist - Toxicology serves as a subject-matter expert within the TVMDL, providing analytical, interpretive, and consultative services related to toxicants affecting animal health, food safety, and environmental exposure.

Responsibilities

General Description

This position performs advanced analytical chemistry and toxicology testing, oversees method development and validation, ensures scientific integrity and regulatory compliance, and communicates findings to veterinarians, producers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders. The Lead Scientist contributes to the laboratory’s mission by supporting timely, accurate, and defensible diagnostic results that guide clinical decision-making and disease investigations in livestock, companion animals, and wildlife.

 

Sample Preparation, Sample Cataloging

Participates in sample processing by ensuring samples are fit for purpose of test, and are preserved in optimal condition throughout the course of testing and review. Reviews submittal forms and interprets test requests/client instruction(s).

 

Testing

Conducts qualitative and quantitative analysis of toxicants, including drugs, pesticides, metals and minerals, and environmental contaminants including seeds and plants. Selects appropriate analytical workflows employing LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and other advanced instrumentation guiding scientific and technical staff through testing methodology. Interprets analytical findings and provides written/verbal reports summarizing results, toxicological significance, differential considerations, and potential exposure sources. Serves as the primary consultant for toxicology cases, assisting veterinarians and pathologists with test selection, sampling strategies, and case interpretation.

Performs microscopy and microscopic identification of plant/ingesta materials associated with toxic exposure. Supports digital toxicology initiatives, including remote identification of toxic materials where appropriate. Performs instrument calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, corrective actions, and control review.

 

Method Development, Data Entry, Interpretation, Results

Develops, optimizes, and validates new analytical methods to expand laboratory capabilities and meet emerging diagnostic needs. Reads, computes and records observations, results and measurements into LIMS. Ensures documentation for all tests performed in the section meets quality assurance requirements. Recognizes abnormal values to be further reviewed. Manages toxicology caseload, prioritizes sample flow, and ensures timely completion of testing. Participates in research, surveillance programs, and special projects related to toxic exposures, environmental health, or regulatory monitoring. Contributes toxicology expertise during unusual disease events, mortality investigations, or suspected contamination incidents.

 

Client Communication

Contacts clients to clarify basic test requests, verify sources/locations for specimens, and provide expertise for resolution of problematic sample submissions. Prepares scientific manuscripts, conference abstracts, technical bulletins, and laboratory guidance documents as needed. Collaborates with veterinarians, pathologists, chemists, epidemiologists, and external agencies to support interdisciplinary case reviews. Provides toxicology consultation to state and federal partners (e.g., USDA, FDA, EPA, state departments of agriculture and health). Delivers educational outreach for clients and stakeholders through presentations, workshops, and training materials. May be called upon to serve as subject matter expert to support clients in legal depositions or testimony.

 

Quality Assurance & Safety

Adheres and conforms to quality assurance, safety programs, and procedures. Assists in identifying incidents of non-conformance and noncompliance. Reviews quality assurance documents (Standard Operating Procedures, forms, etc.) to ensure clarity of instructions and performs trainings and testing within a timely manner. Responsible for safe handling and disposal of hazardous chemicals when relevant. Evaluates proficiency test results and implements continuous quality improvement initiatives. Performs instrument calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, corrective actions, and control review. Develops and updates standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety documentation, and compliance policies.

 

SOPs, Procedures, Forms, Other Documentation

Reads, interprets, and performs all tests in accordance with standard operating procedures (SOPs). Develops and updates standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety documentation, and compliance policies.

 

Research, Reference Materials, Test Development

Leads or supports scientific and technical staff in establishing optimal reference materials for testing.

 

Supplies, Stock, Inventory, Equipment

Catalogs incoming supplies and stock inventory, ensuring maintenance of inventory system. Recognizes and informs technical and administrative staff when supply inventory is low, inadequate, or expired in a timely manner. Provides expertise for selection and implementation of modern instrumentation best fit for toxicology testing.

 

Administrative Roles

Maintains accurate, complete, and compliant documentation supporting toxicology casework, method performance, and laboratory operations. Ensures timely filing and electronic management of records within the laboratory information and document management systems, including but not limited to analytical worksheets, accession records, regulatory and quality assurance documentation, safety records, equipment maintenance logs, and validation materials. Adheres to agency, state, and federal requirements for records retention, data integrity, and confidentiality.

 

Training and Mentorship

Provides mentorship and technical training to laboratory staff and trainees on established and emerging toxicology methodologies, instrumentation, and best laboratory practices. Supports onboarding and competency development for new personnel on proficient analytical stations, offering constructive feedback and guidance to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. Maintains regular communication with Section leadership regarding training progress, proficiency assessments, and workforce development needs.

 

Teamwork & Cooperation

Promotes a collaborative, respectful, and professional laboratory culture that supports high-quality diagnostic outcomes. Participates in cross-training and knowledge sharing across analytical chemistry and related laboratory sections to enhance operational resilience. Provides scientific and operational support to colleagues during periods of increased workload, complex case demands, or staff absences, contributing to timely case turnaround and consistent service delivery.

Other

Works in conjunction with Diagnostic Services and Marketing to actively promote new or modified tests, TVMDL services or other client-education topics by writing and/or editing copy, speaking at conferences or meetings, or participating in TVMDL-sponsored exhibit shows. Assists/hosts/leads programs for 4-H students, career fairs, student tours and other lab guests.

 

Work shall be performed with adherence to federal, state, Texas A&M University System, and TVMDL safety rules, regulations, policies and procedures. Performs work in such a way as to not expose others or the employee to hazards that are avoidable by reasonable and approved methods.

 

Laboratory environment with routine exposure to chemicals, biological materials, and instrumentation. Ability to stand, lift up to 25–40 lbs, and perform laboratory bench work for extended periods. Occasional travel for training, conferences, or interagency collaboration.

Performs other job-related duties as required.

Additional Position Details

• Occasional in-state travel is required. Operates assigned equipment in a safe manner and in adherence to all TAMUS, AgriLife, and TVMDL policies as well as local, state, and federal laws.

• Staff may be asked to travel in urgent scenarios. The analytical chemistry section is typically closed for testing on weekends; however, staff may be asked to verify instrument status on occasion or support surge testing, where indicated.

• Incumbent will be required to take a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs. 

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience:

• Master's degree or higher in a related field or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

• Eight years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Advanced knowledge of section-specific discipline. Knowledge of quality assurance and safety programs in a laboratory.

• Ensures attention to detail.

• Able to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Able to perform assigned assays with minimal technical supervision and considerable independent decision making.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Required Licenses, Certifications, Registrations

• Must have a valid Texas motor vehicle operator’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of employment.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Doctoral degree (PhD, DVM, or equivalent) with advanced training in toxicology, veterinary toxicology, pharmacology, analytical chemistry, or related discipline.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Experience working in a veterinary diagnostic or public health laboratory.

  Familiarity with ISO/IEC 17025, AAVLD accreditation, QA/QC systems, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

• Research or case experience involving livestock, companion animals, wildlife, or feed contamination.

  Demonstrated experience with instrumental analysis (LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, or comparable platforms).

• Strong knowledge of toxicokinetics, aoxicodynamics, veterinary pharmacology, and mechanisms of toxicity.

  Ability to interpret clinical, pathological, and analytical data in an integrated diagnostic context.

• Excellent communication skills, particularly in translating complex toxicological findings for diverse audiences.

  Experience in toxic plant identification or rangeland toxicology.

Preferred Licenses, Certifications, Registrations:

• Board certification as a Diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology (DABVT) or American Board of Toxicology (DABT).

Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL) is an integral part of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS). It consists of four lab locations spread across Texas; two full-service laboratories located in Canyon and College Station and two poultry laboratories in Center and Gonzales. TVMDL is the only state agency entirely dedicated to protecting animal and public health through diagnostic testing.

TVMDL is a state-of-the-art veterinary diagnostic laboratory that collects hundreds of data points concerning veterinary diagnostics and population health each day. TVMDL is a state agency under the TAMUS umbrella that serves the veterinary community and is an independent entity from the TAMU College of Veterinary Medicine.

Texas A&M System employees are eligible for health, dental, vision, and life insurance programs for employees and their family. Other standard benefits include generous retirement plans, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Wellness Program, flexible spending accounts, as well as paid holiday, sick, and vacation leave.

In addition, TVMDL offers its employees opportunities to participate in an educational reimbursement plan; discounted diagnostic testing, veterinary care, and pet supplies; a formal career ladder for advancement; and continuing education opportunities.

TVMDL is considered an essential component of the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) and remains operational for a number of “open holidays” in which overtime or compensatory time may be earned. For information on TVMDL’s holiday schedule, visit our website.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa category at this time.

TVMDL is located on the campus of Texas A&M University (TAMU). Parking permits are available from TAMU at the expense of the employee.

This position serves as a Toxicologist in the Analytical Chemistry Section, a fast paced, high-volume laboratory that conducts over 200 diagnostic tests and panels daily on animal samples submitted by veterinarians and animal owners.

This position requires a pre-exposure rabies vaccination series; TVMDL will cover all costs.

This position is recommended for an 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday schedule but may participate in flex scheduling by permitting a 7:30am-4:30pm or 9am to 6pm schedule if preferred.

No travel is normally required; however, staff may be asked to travel in urgent scenarios. The analytical chemistry section is typically closed for testing on weekends; however, staff may be asked to verify instrument status on occasion or support surge testing, where indicated.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.