Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT)! 

SOFT members enjoy unparalleled professional advantages designed to enhance career growth, expand knowledge, and foster meaningful connections in forensic toxicology. With a network of over 1,500 professionals, SOFT is dedicated to supporting its members with valuable resources, education, and opportunities.

Join today and take your career to the next level!

How to Apply or Promote Your Membership

Step 1: Select Your Membership Level

Determine which level best matches your qualifications or promotion request (Full, Associate, Student, Retired or Emeritus Membership), refer to requirements and sponsor guidelines below for additional information. 

Step 2: Contact Your Sponsors

  • Applicants must obtain required sponsor(s) before submission.
  • Sponsors must be Full Members in good standing.
  • Students may use an academic advisor in place of a sponsor.
  • Sponsor Email Template - Please use the template below to contact your sponsor.
Dear [Sponsor’s Name],
I hope you're doing well! I’m currently in the process of applying for membership with the Society of Forensic Toxicologists (SOFT) and would be honored to have your support as a sponsor.
As part of the application, SOFT requires each applicant to submit a sponsorship form completed by their sponsors. You can submit the form directly using the link below:
SOFT Sponsor Recommendation Form
Once submitted, I’ll receive a copy for my records and can complete the next steps in my application.
Thank you in advance for your time and support. Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information.
Best regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Email Address]
[Optional: Phone Number] 

Step 3: Create Your SOFT Profile & Submit Payment

  • Create your SOFT Profile and Login
  • Submit your Application Fee (pay online or request an invoice):
    • $150 – Full or Associate Membership
    • $40 – Student Membership
    • $40 (optional) – Retired/Emeritus JAT Subscription 

Step 4: Submit Your Membership Application

Once you receive your sponsor’s completed form via email (sent automatically from JotForm), you’re ready to submit your SOFT Membership Application.
Please have the following items ready:
  • Current CV or Resume
  • Completed Sponsorship Form (PDF received via email)

You may upload your documents and complete your application here: 

SOFT Membership Application  

Application Review Process

Completed Applications are reviewed monthly by the SOFT Membership Committee. Please allow 90 days for processing. Applicants will receive a decision by email once their review is complete. 

Membership Levels & Application 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
  • Dues: $150/year (applied toward application fee)
  • Sponsors Needed: 2 Full Members in good standing
  • Privileges: Voting rights and access to all member benefits

Associate Membership

For those with an interest in forensic toxicology but not meeting Full Membership qualifications.

  • Dues: $150/year (applied toward application fee)
  • Sponsors Needed: 1 Full Member in good standing
  • Privileges: Non-voting; not eligible for Emeritus status

Student Membership

For students pursuing degrees or careers related to forensic toxicology.

  • Dues: $40/year (applied toward application fee)
  • Sponsors Needed: 1 Full Member in good standing or academic advisor
  • Privileges: Non-voting; reduced dues

Retired Membership

For Full/Charter Members with ≥10 years of membership and age 65+.

  • Dues: No fee (optional $40/year for JAT subscription)
  • Sponsors Needed: None
  • Privileges: Voting rights

Emeritus Membership

For Full/Charter Members with ≥25 years of membership and age 65+.

  • Dues: No fee (optional $40/year for JAT subscription)
  • Sponsors Needed: None
  • Privileges: Voting rights

Sonspors 

Members of SOFT may serve as a sponsor for new applicants or those seeking membership promotion. If you are a Full Member in good standing or an academic advisor, you are eligible to serve as a sponsor. Simply complete the Membership Sponsorship Form.

Membership Type
Sponsors Required
Full Membership
Two Full Members in good standing
Associate Membership
One Full Member in good standing
Student Membership
One Full Member in good standing or Advisor
Retired/Emeritus
Not required