Big news in the world of toxicology and science policy: Toxicology Excellence for Risk Assessment (TERA) and the Center for Truth in Science (CTS) have officially merged, effective April 1, 2026. Together they’re forming a stronger, more unified organization focused on making sure good science drives good decisions.

A New Chapter for Science and Safety

At its core, this is about expanding impact. TERA has long been a trusted name in risk assessment, helping scientists and safety professionals understand how chemicals affect human health. CTS has been doing the crucial work of bringing sound, evidence-based science into courtrooms and regulatory processes. Now, by joining forces, both organizations can do more of what they do best—together.

For TERA, the merger means broadening its mission to include judicial decisions and toxic torts, areas where the stakes are high and the science needs to be sound. For CTS, it means gaining TERA’s deep technical expertise and infrastructure to amplify its voice in courts and regulatory agencies across the country.

What the New Organization Will Do

Michael Dourson, President and Director of Science at TERA, put it simply: “The combined group will focus on toxicology excellence in risk assessment, assist the courts in understanding complex scientific data, and educate the public on issues of chemical safety.”

Richard Williams, Board Chairman of CTS, emphasized why this collaboration matters: “This merger ensures that sound science remains the cornerstone of the decisions that impact our economy and legal system.”

As part of the transition, Williams will join TERA’s Board of Directors, bringing continuity and shared leadership to the new structure.

Why this Matters

Whether it’s a courtroom determining liability for chemical exposure or a federal agency setting safety standards, the quality of the science behind those decisions has real consequences for real people. By combining their strengths, TERA and CTS are positioning themselves to be a more powerful resource for anyone navigating the intersection of science, law, and public policy.