Membership in the Society of Forensic Toxicologists 

Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT). With a community of more than 1,600 professionals, SOFT supports career development, continuing education, and collaboration across the field of forensic toxicology.

Already a SOFT member?

If you are a current SOFT member and would like to apply for a change in membership type, please use the Membership Type Change Application.

How to Apply for SOFT Membership

The SOFT membership application process has three steps. These steps do not need to be completed on the same day, but all must be completed before your application can be reviewed.

Step 1: Access Your SOFT Account and Pay the Application Fee

To begin, you will need access to a SOFT account.

  • If you are new to SOFT, you will create an account as part of this process.

  • If you have previously registered for a SOFT program, meeting, or workshop, or if you are a former SOFT member, you may already have an account. In that case, you should log in using your existing credentials.

If you are unsure whether you already have a SOFT account, please do not create a duplicate account. Contact SOFT staff for assistance.

Once logged in, pay the application fee.

Application Fees

  • $150 – Full or Associate Membership

  • $40 – Student Membership

The application fee applies to your first year of membership dues if approved.

Pay Membership Application Fee

Step 2: Obtain Required Sponsor(s)

Before submitting your membership application, you must obtain the required sponsor(s).

  • Sponsors must be Full Members in good standing

  • Student applicants may use an academic advisor in place of a Full Member

  • Retired and Emeritus membership types do not require sponsors

To request sponsorship, send the SOFT Application Sponsorship Form to your sponsor(s):

Sponsor Form

When your sponsor completes the form, you will automatically receive a PDF copy by email. You will upload this document with your application.

Detailed membership type requirements and sponsor requirements can be found on our Membership Requirements page.

Step 3: Submit Your Membership Application

Once you have gathered all required materials, submit your membership application.

You will need:

  • A current CV or resume

  • Completed sponsorship form(s) (PDF copies received by email)

SOFT Membership Application

Application Review Process

  • Completed applications are reviewed monthly by the SOFT Membership Committee.

  • Applications must be complete (application submitted, sponsors verified, and application fee received if required) before review.

  • Please allow up to 60 days for processing.

  • Applicants will be notified of the committee’s decision by email.

Membership Types and Requirements

Full Membership

For individuals actively engaged in forensic toxicology.

Requirements

  • Ph.D. + 1 year experience

  • M.S. + 2 years experience

  • B.S. or B.A. + 3 years experience

Sponsors Required: Two Full Members
Dues: $150/year
Privileges: Voting rights and access to all member benefits

Associate Membership

For individuals with an interest in forensic toxicology who do not meet Full Membership requirements.

Sponsors Required: One Full Member
Dues: $150/year
Privileges: Non-voting; not eligible for Emeritus status

Student Membership

For students pursuing degrees or careers related to forensic toxicology.

Sponsors Required: One Full Member or academic advisor
Dues: $40/year
Privileges: Non-voting; reduced dues

Retired Membership

For Full or Charter Members with at least 10 years of membership and age 65 or older.

Sponsors Required: None
Dues: No fee
Privileges: Voting rights

Emeritus Membership

For Full or Charter Members with at least 25 years of membership and age 65 or older.

Sponsors Required: None
Dues: No fee
Privileges: Voting rights

Serving as a Sponsor

Full Members in good standing and academic advisors may serve as sponsors for:

  • New membership applicants

  • Members applying for a change in membership type

Sponsors complete the Membership Sponsorship Form, which is automatically sent to the applicant upon completion.

Questions?

If you have questions about the application process or membership requirements, please contact SOFT staff.