Mark Cronin, Professor of Predictive Toxicology

Mark Cronin is Professor of Predictive Toxicology in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences at Liverpool John Moores University, UK.

Prof Cronin is recognized internationally as an expert in the use of in silico approaches in non-animal chemical safety assessment. He has over 35 years expertise in computational toxicology focusing on the development and application of (quantitative) structure-activity relationships ((Q)SARs) and read-across. The models in computational toxicology have crossed ecotoxicology and toxicology. Cronin has developed QSARs for toxicity to aquatic species (fish, invertebrates etc.) and well as applying modelling techniques ranging from regression analysis to machine learning to human health effects (skin sensitization, organ level effects, carcinogenicity etc.). Modelling has also enabled an appreciation of the requirement for robust data sources, and their storage. In addition, Cronin has developed other areas of expertise including the quantification of Adverse Outcome Pathways (qAOPs), the extension and revision of the Threshold of Toxicological Concern (TTC) concept for cosmetic ingredients and the creation of robust structure-based profilers for in silico screening of ecotoxicological and human health effects. Since 2000, Prof Cronin has been involved in more than ten European Union projects (including: CAESAR, COSMOS, eTRANSAFE, RISK-HUNT3R) as well as receiving funding from industry and various trade associations.

Outputs from Prof Cronin’s research include over 300 peer-reviewed publications and four books. He is co-editor in chief of the Elsevier journal Computational Toxicology. He has worked on numerous and varied committees, ranging from ECVAM workshops, OECD QSAR Toolbox Management Group, European Food Safety Authority, Consortia and EU Project co-ordination etc.