SOFT Annual Awards

Nomination Deadline: June 30, 2026
Awards Ceremony: SOFT-TIAFT 2026 Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois
Questions? Contact Awards Committee Chair, Rusty Lewis

Nomination Form

About the SOFT Annual Awards 

Established in 2021, the SOFT Annual Awards Program honors members of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists for exemplary contributions to the field of forensic toxicology. These prestigious honors recognize individuals who advance the discipline through research, service, mentorship, and leadership. 

Award recipients are selected through an open nomination process and evaluated by the SOFT Awards Committee. Honorees are formally recognized during the SOFT Business Meeting.

Eligibility: 

• Both the nominator and nominee must be current SOFT members

• Self-nominations will not be accepted

• Past recipients may be nominated for a different Annual Award 

Nomination Requirements 

A complete nomination must include: 

• Selection of an award category

• A written rationale for the nomination (maximum 1,000 words)

• A resume, CV, or document outlining the nominee’s professional background 

Optional Supporting Materials: 

• Up to two letters of support (maximum 1,000 words each)

  • Letters exceeding the word limit will not be considered

  • Letters may be submitted by non-members 

Please note: Additional materials beyond those listed above will not be considered. 

Award Descriptions 

Research in Forensic Toxicology Award
Recognizes a SOFT member whose contemporary, peer-reviewed scientific research has made a significant impact on the knowledge and practice of forensic toxicology. The work should enhance the scientific foundation of the field. 

Young Forensic Toxicologist Service Award
Honors a SOFT member aged 40 or younger who has demonstrated exceptional service and leadership within the Society. This award celebrates early-career contributions that support and strengthen SOFT. 

Teaching and Mentoring Award
Recognizes a SOFT member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching or mentoring students and professionals in forensic toxicology. Nominees may work in academia or applied practice. Letters of reference from mentees are required. 

Distinguished Service Award
Presented to a SOFT member whose sustained and exemplary service has significantly advanced the Society. This award honors long-term commitment and outstanding contributions to the SOFT community. 

Previous Award Recipients 

Young Forensic Toxicologist Service Award
2025 – Joseph Kahl
2024 – Erin Karschner
2023 – Luke Rodda
2021 – Dani Mata 

Research in Forensic Toxicology Award
2025 – Svante Vikingsson
2022 – Edward Jackson Cone
2021 – Alex Krotulski 

Teaching and Mentoring Award
2025 – Robert Kronstrand
2024 – Carl Wolf
2023 – Amy Miles
2022 – William Anderson
2021 – Michelle Peace