American Chemical Society

About the American Chemical Society

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a scientific society based in the United States that supports scientific inquiry in the field of chemistry. Founded in 1876, ACS is one of the world's largest scientific organizations with more than 155,000 members at all degree levels and in all fields of chemistry, chemical engineering, and related fields. It is a nonprofit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress and is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

ACS provides access to chemistry-related research through its multiple databases, peer-reviewed journals, and scientific conferences. It plays a major role in setting standards for chemistry education through its Committee on Professional Training, which approves undergraduate chemistry programs throughout the United States. The organization also offers professional development opportunities, networking events, and career services for chemists.

History

The American Chemical Society was founded in 1876 at New York University by a group of 35 chemists who convened to discuss scientific issues and promote knowledge of chemistry. Among its founders were prominent scientists including John William Draper, who served as its first president, and Charles F. Chandler, who was instrumental in its establishment.

The society grew rapidly in its early years, establishing sections in major cities and organizing national meetings. In 1908, ACS established its first local section in New York, marking the beginning of its extensive network across the United States. The organization expanded its publications program early on, launching its flagship journal, the Journal of the American Chemical Society, in 1879.

Throughout its history, ACS has played a crucial role in shaping chemistry education, research standards, and public policy related to chemical science. During World War I and World War II, the society coordinated scientific efforts and supported war-related chemical research. In the post-war era, ACS helped establish chemistry as a central science by developing educational curricula and supporting research that advanced numerous technological innovations.

Publications

ACS Publications is a leading publisher of peer-reviewed scientific journals and ebooks covering chemistry, physics, biology, and related disciplines. The division maintains a portfolio of more than 80 high-quality, peer-reviewed journals, including some of the most cited publications in chemistry.

Notable ACS Journals

• Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS) - ACS's flagship journal covering all fields of chemistry
• Chemical Reviews - Highly cited review publication covering advances in chemistry
• Environmental Science & Technology - Focuses on environmental implications of chemistry
• Nano Letters - Dedicated to nanoscience and nanotechnology
• Chemistry of Materials - Covers materials science and engineering
• Analytical Chemistry - Focuses on analytical systems and techniques
• Biochemistry - Explores the chemical processes of living organisms

ACS Publications also provides access to the ACS Legacy Archives, which contains content from 1879 to 1995, preserving critical scientific history. The division has embraced open access initiatives, with several journals offering open access publishing options to enhance the visibility and impact of research.

Conferences and Meetings

ACS organizes numerous scientific meetings and conferences throughout the year, providing platforms for researchers to share findings, network, and stay updated with the latest developments in chemistry. These events bring together thousands of chemists, students, educators, and industry professionals from around the world.

ACS National Meetings

ACS holds two national meetings annually in the spring and fall, each featuring thousands of technical presentations, workshops, poster sessions, and exhibits. These meetings provide opportunities for chemists across all specialties to present their research, discuss scientific trends, and explore career opportunities. National meetings also include specialty programming for students, educators, and industry professionals.

Regional Meetings

ACS supports more than a dozen regional meetings across the United States, offering more intimate and focused environments for scientific exchange. These meetings are often organized by local ACS sections and provide valuable networking opportunities, particularly for students and early-career chemists.

Specialty Conferences

In addition to national and regional meetings, ACS organizes numerous specialty conferences focused on specific areas of chemistry, such as green chemistry, medicinal chemistry, polymer science, and chemical education. These conferences provide targeted content and specialized networking opportunities for scientists in these fields.

Education and Resources

The ACS Education Division provides extensive resources and programs to support chemistry education at all levels, from K-12 through post-graduate studies. These initiatives are designed to improve chemistry teaching, enhance student learning, and promote public understanding of chemistry.

Chemistry Education Programs

• ACS Approved Programs - The Committee on Professional Training approves undergraduate chemistry programs that meet rigorous educational standards
• National Chemistry Week - Annual outreach event engaging communities in chemistry education
• Chemistry Olympiad - Competition program recognizing outstanding secondary school chemistry students
• K-12 Chemistry Resources - Learning materials and programs for teachers and students

Professional Development

ACS offers numerous professional development opportunities for chemistry educators, including workshops, webinars, and networking events. These programs help teachers stay current with scientific developments, pedagogical techniques, and educational technologies.

Student Resources

The ACS Student Chapters program supports undergraduates interested in chemistry through chapter activities, networking opportunities, and career resources. The society also provides scholarships, grants, and recognition programs that support students pursuing careers in chemistry and related fields.

Membership Benefits

ACS membership offers numerous benefits for chemistry professionals, students, and educators across career stages, including:

Professional Development

• Access to webinars and online courses
• Career counseling and employment services
• Leadership opportunities through committee service
• Networking with colleagues across the chemical enterprise

Information Access

• Subscriptions to ACS journals at member rates
• Access to Chemical Abstracts Service databases
• Weekly digital newsletter with chemistry news
• Access to ACS's Digital Library

Community Engagement

Members can join one or more of ACS's 32 technical divisions and numerous local sections, allowing them to connect with colleagues who share specific scientific interests. These groups organize meetings, publish newsletters, and provide additional networking opportunities within specialized areas of chemistry.

Impact on Chemistry and Society

The American Chemical Society has significantly influenced the advancement of chemistry as a science and profession, making substantial contributions to education, research, and public policy. Its publications have disseminated groundbreaking chemical research to the global scientific community for over 140 years.

Scientific Advancement

Through its journals, conferences, and awards programs, ACS has facilitated the exchange of scientific knowledge across disciplines and borders. The society has recognized and supported research that has led to transformative discoveries in medicine, materials science, environmental science, and countless other fields.

Education Standards

ACS has established rigorous standards for chemistry education through its Committee on Professional Training. The approval process for undergraduate chemistry programs has elevated educational quality and helped ensure that graduates possess the knowledge and skills needed for professional success. The society's educational resources and outreach initiatives have also improved chemistry education at the K-12 level.

Public Policy and Advocacy

ACS advocates for science-based policies that benefit society and the scientific enterprise. The society provides expertise to policymakers on issues related to energy, environment, health, education, and national security. Through its Office of Public Affairs, ACS helps ensure that sound scientific principles inform public policy decisions.

Global Reach

Although founded as a national society, ACS has evolved into a globally influential organization. Its publications are read worldwide, its international membership continues to grow, and its conferences attract participants from across the globe. ACS collaborates with sister chemical societies in other countries to address global scientific challenges and promote international cooperation in chemistry.