ACS: American Chemical Society
What is the American Chemical Society?
The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Earth and its people. Founded in 1876, ACS is the world’s largest scientific society, with over 157,000 members in 140 countries.
Mission and Vision
Mission: To advance the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Earth and its people.
Vision: To be the premier global organization for the advancement of the chemical sciences, transforming the world through the power of chemistry.
ACS Divisions and Activities
ACS is organized into 32 technical divisions, each focusing on a specific area of chemistry. These divisions offer a platform for members to connect with colleagues, share research, and participate in professional development opportunities.
Some of the key activities of ACS include:
- Publishing: ACS publishes over 50 peer-reviewed scientific journals, including the prestigious Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS).
- Meetings and Conferences: ACS hosts numerous national and international meetings and conferences throughout the year, providing a forum for scientists to present their research and Network with peers.
- Education and Outreach: ACS is committed to promoting chemistry education at all levels, from K-12 to graduate school. The organization offers a variety of Resources and programs to support educators and students.
- Advocacy: ACS advocates for Sound science policy and the responsible use of chemistry. The organization works with government agencies and policymakers to ensure that science informs decision-making.
Membership Benefits
Membership in ACS offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- Access to ACS publications: Members receive online access to all ACS journals and other publications.
- Networking opportunities: ACS provides numerous opportunities for members to connect with colleagues and build professional relationships.
- Professional development: ACS offers a variety of professional development programs, including workshops, webinars, and conferences.
- Discounts and Savings: Members receive discounts on ACS products and Services, as well as on products and services from other organizations.
- Advocacy and representation: ACS advocates for the interests of chemists and the chemical sciences.
ACS Awards and Recognition
ACS recognizes outstanding achievements in chemistry through a variety of awards and honors. Some of the most prestigious awards include:
- The Nobel Prize in Chemistry: ACS members have won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 33 times.
- The National Medal of Science: ACS members have received the National Medal of Science 28 times.
- The Priestley Medal: The Priestley Medal is the highest award bestowed by ACS, recognizing distinguished service to chemistry.
ACS Journals
ACS publishes over 50 peer-reviewed scientific journals, covering a wide range of chemical disciplines. Some of the most prominent journals include:
| Journal Name | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS) | General Chemistry |
| ACS Central Science | Multidisciplinary Chemistry |
| Chemical Reviews | Critical Reviews of Chemical Topics |
| Accounts of Chemical Research | Accounts of Recent Research |
| Inorganic Chemistry | Inorganic Chemistry |
| Organic Letters | Organic Chemistry |
| Analytical Chemistry | Analytical Chemistry |
| Macromolecules | Polymer Science |
| Journal of Medicinal Chemistry | Medicinal Chemistry |
| Environmental Science & Technology | Environmental Chemistry |
ACS Meetings and Conferences
ACS hosts numerous national and international meetings and conferences throughout the year. These meetings provide a forum for scientists to present their research, network with peers, and learn about the latest advances in chemistry.
| Meeting Name | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| ACS National Meeting | All Areas of Chemistry |
| ACS Fall Meeting | All Areas of Chemistry |
| ACS Spring Meeting | All Areas of Chemistry |
| ACS International Chemical Congress | All Areas of Chemistry |
ACS Education and Outreach
ACS is committed to promoting chemistry education at all levels, from K-12 to graduate school. The organization offers a variety of resources and programs to support educators and students.
Some of the key education and outreach programs of ACS include:
- ChemMatters: A magazine for high school students that explores the relevance of chemistry to everyday life.
- Project SEED: A program that provides summer research opportunities for underrepresented minority high school students.
- Chemists Celebrate Earth Day: An annual event that encourages chemists to engage with the public about the importance of chemistry.
ACS Advocacy
ACS advocates for sound science policy and the responsible use of chemistry. The organization works with government agencies and policymakers to ensure that science informs decision-making.
Some of the key advocacy issues of ACS include:
- Funding for scientific research: ACS advocates for increased funding for scientific research, both at the federal and state levels.
- Environmental protection: ACS supports policies that protect the Environment and promote Sustainable Development.
- Science education: ACS advocates for improved science education at all levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I join ACS?
A: You can join ACS online at the ACS website. You will need to provide your personal information and choose a membership type.
Q: How much does it cost to join ACS?
A: The cost of ACS membership varies depending on your membership type and your location. You can find more information about membership fees on the ACS website.
Q: What are the benefits of joining ACS?
A: Membership in ACS offers a wide range of benefits, including access to ACS publications, networking opportunities, professional development programs, discounts and savings, and advocacy and representation.
Q: How can I get involved in ACS?
A: There are many ways to get involved in ACS. You can join a local section, volunteer for an ACS program, or attend an ACS meeting or conference.
Q: What are the career opportunities for chemists?
A: Chemists work in a variety of fields, including academia, Industry, and government. Some common career paths for chemists include research scientist, analytical chemist, and chemical engineer.
Q: What is the future of chemistry?
A: Chemistry is a constantly evolving field, with new discoveries and innovations being made all the time. The future of chemistry holds great promise for addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as Climate change, energy production, and disease prevention.