Science Programme

The ECETOC Science Programme is focussed on one core theme: enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of chemicals risk assessment.

As such, ECETOC operates on 2 levels:

  • Task Forces and Workshops – which address immediate regulatory scientific needs. These are in general topics that need to be completed within 12-18 months.
  • Transformational Programmes –  which address topics of longer term scientific relevance aimed at producing transformational change in chemicals management. These are in general horizontal themes to be completed over 3-5 years.

To achieve this, activities are divided into the following 3 areas of activity:

1

Structuring Scientific
Knowledge

ECETOC works with experts from academia, industry and regulatory bodies on questions of importance to chemicals risk assessment science. It does this through the platforms of Workshops, Expert Meetings and Task Forces.

2

Developing Scientific
Knowledge

ECETOC collaborates with Cefic LRI to develop targeted research on applied science as it relates to risk assessment. This is achieved by providing Cefic LRI with scientific advisory support in the development of the LRI programme and oversight and monitoring of the Cefic-LRI funded projects.

3

Communicating Scientific
Knowledge

ECETOC shares all its output freely through its website, open access publications, meetings and symposia. ECETOC risk assessment tools are also freely available on this website.

ECETOC task forces are established by ECETOC’s Scientific Committee in response to an identified need or objective, which typically sit within the framework of its strategy.

The work of an ECETOC task force follows a terms of reference established by the Scientific Committee. Each task force is directed by a chairman, who is responsible for assuring the completion of its objectives. And each task force is supported by a scientific officer from the ECETOC Secretariat.