If you are planning to attend the American College of Toxicology Annual Meeting this year, these tips will help you maximize your experience—before, during, and after our flagship event.
The Annual Meeting does not have an official dress code, but most attendees wear business-casual attire. Conference rooms are often kept at a cool temperature, so consider bringing a sweater or wearing layers. Wear comfortable shoes, as conference centers are large and may require a lot of walking between session rooms.
The Annual Meeting offers a robust scientific program comprised of Continuing Education courses and scientific sessions for attendees of all levels and specialties. Social events are also planned throughout the meeting to facilitate professional networking.
Both the Annual Meeting Mobile App and the Annual Meeting website contain the full schedule of events. Before you arrive at the meeting, explore the sessions and events on the schedule and select those that interest you. Please note that some activities are invitation only or require registration to attend, and some have additional fees.
If you are an ACT member, upload a profile picture to interACT so colleagues will recognize you at the meeting. Don’t have a picture of yourself that you like? There will be time allocated during the meeting for ACT members to sit for a free professional portrait. ACT members will be sent a link to download their photo from the meeting approximately three weeks after the event.
Upon arrival, visit the registration desk to check in and print your badge. The QR code on your badge contains information about any ticketed events you are registered for, such as Continuing Education courses and the Welcome Reception. No separate tickets will be needed—just have your badge scanned at each door for entry.
The Poster Session, scheduled for Monday from 5:00 pm–6:30 pm local time, will showcase some of the latest and most innovative contributions in the field of toxicology. Plan to explore a broad range of topics and take the opportunity to engage directly with the researchers. Also, don’t miss Tuesday’s breakfast reception in the Exhibit Hall, which provides another opportunity to view this cutting-edge science on display.
If you are presenting research during the Annual Meeting, you should plan to stand by your poster during the Poster Session and engage with those who stop by. These one-on-one interactions are a great way to make connections and receive valuable feedback.
The Annual Meeting offers Symposia, Workshops, and Continuing Education (CE) courses. CE courses are held on Sunday and require separate registration. These courses offer education for every career stage on the latest in applied toxicology. Symposia and Workshops are held from Monday through Wednesday. Detailed descriptions and learning levels of all sessions are listed under the Scientific Program menu on the Annual Meeting website.
ACT Expo Live! connects attendees with industry partners in an intimate setting, all under one roof. We hope you enjoy this opportunity to learn about new products and innovations in the field of toxicology.
Some exhibitors also host Exhibitor-Hosted Programs, which are commercially supported educational sessions held in conjunction with the Annual Meeting. These programs are open to all attendees.
The Annual Meeting brings together toxicologists from academia, industry, government, and consulting, making it an ideal avenue for networking. It is a collegial gathering—fellow attendees want to meet you.
To make the most of the meeting, you are encouraged to introduce yourself to speakers after their presentations and to arrange chats with fellow attendees during the meeting. In addition, remember that the Annual Meeting social program—including the Welcome Reception, Poster Session, ACT Member Mixer (members only), and Closing Social—is designed to facilitate professional networking.
Take advantage of these events, activities, and opportunities and make yourself known!
Once you’ve returned home, follow up with the new contacts you met during the meeting. You may want to send a thank you note to those with whom you had a connection.
ACT members can contact fellow members using the Member Directory in interACT. For connecting with individuals who are not members of ACT, consider adding them to your LinkedIn network to help facilitate a lasting relationship.
There are many ways you can get involved in the College throughout the year outside of the Annual Meeting. ACT has volunteer opportunities for individuals across career and education levels that also allow you to enhance your CV and make lasting connections. If you are interested in learning more about volunteering with the College, submit a volunteer form at any time.
If you are not an ACT member, consider applying to join this community of professionals dedicated to education, leadership, and service in applied toxicology. To learn more about membership in the College, visit the Membership section of the ACT website.
