Syngenta Principal Scientist Speaks at Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting

GREENSBORO, N.C., March 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Syngenta Principal Scientist Timothy Pastoor, Ph.D., DABT, was part of the panel presentation "Refining Your Science Communication Skills" at the Society of Toxicology (SOT) Annual Meeting and Expo March 11 through 15 in San Francisco, Calif. The five-person panel gave SOT members real-world advice on communicating science, not only to other scientists but also a lay audience.

"Science, and especially toxicology, can be difficult to understand," said Pastoor. "If we, as scientists, want to be not just heard but also understood, it is vital we learn how to effectively communicate with people inside and outside our industry. This goes far beyond explaining our hypotheses, scientific methods and results to colleagues. We must be able to put data into context that is meaningful and understandable to the audience we are addressing."

Pastoor often serves as a science expert and lecturer on toxicology and risk-assessment subjects for Syngenta. Previously, he served as the company's head of Human Safety, managing a team of toxicologists and risk-assessment experts who use safety, health and environmental studies to ensure products are safe.

"Tim plays an important role on the Society's Communications Committee, and as current president of the SOT Regulatory and Safety Evaluation Specialty Section, we knew he'd be a great addition to the discussion," said Martha Lindauer, SOT Media and Communications manager. "It's great to have someone from the private sector share their expertise and perspective."

Pastoor has more than 30 years international experience in fundamental toxicity testing, mode-of-action research and human-health risk assessment. He is also a member of the Society for Risk Analysis and board member of both the Toxicology Forum and the International Life Sciences Institute/Health and Environmental Sciences Institute (ILSI/HESI).

Pastoor earned his doctorate in toxicology from the University of Michigan and is certified by the American Board of Toxicology (DABT).

About the Society of Toxicology

The Society of Toxicology (SOT) is a professional and scholarly organization of scientists from academic institutions, government, and industry representing the great variety of scientists who practice toxicology in the US and abroad. SOT is committed to creating a safer and healthier world by advancing the science of toxicology. The Society promotes the acquisition and utilization of knowledge in toxicology, aids in the protection of public health, and facilitates disciplines. The Society has a strong commitment to education in toxicology and to the recruitment of students and new members into the profession.

About Syngenta

Syngenta is one of the world's leading companies with more than 26,000 employees in over 90 countries dedicated to our purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Through world-class science, global reach and commitment to our customers, we help to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life.  For more information about us, please go to www.syngenta.com.

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