AAAS

AAAS

The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) is the world's largest multidisciplinary scientific society and a leading voice in advancing science, engineering, and innovation for the betterment of humanity. Established in 1848, AAAS works to promote and protect the integrity of science, foster scientific excellence, and engage the public in understanding science's role in society. Through its various programs, grants, and fellowships, AAAS supports researchers, educators, policymakers, and science communicators who contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge and its application for societal good.

AAAS offers a range of funding opportunities aimed at enhancing scientific research, promoting STEM education, and supporting initiatives that increase the public's understanding of science. The organization is dedicated to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the scientific community and provides grants that empower individuals and institutions to make a positive impact through science.

Mission and Vision

The mission of AAAS is to advance science, engineering, and innovation throughout the world for the benefit of all people. AAAS aims to support scientific research, foster science education, advocate for evidence-based policymaking, and promote public engagement with science. The organization's work is grounded in the belief that science, when conducted responsibly and inclusively, can solve the world's most pressing problems.

AAAS's vision is a world in which scientific evidence informs decisions, public understanding of science flourishes, and scientists are empowered to make meaningful contributions to society. By promoting open dialogue, ethical conduct, and collaboration, AAAS seeks to ensure that science remains a driving force for progress.

Funding Programs and Strategic Initiatives

AAAS offers several funding programs and initiatives that support research, education, and public engagement with science. These grants are designed to enhance scientific literacy, promote career development, and advance the use of science in public policy. Key funding programs include:

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  Research Competitiveness Program (RCP) Grants: The Research Competitiveness Program (RCP) provides expert review, consultation, and funding support to enhance the quality of research proposals and programs. RCP works with universities, government agencies, and research institutions to assess and improve their research competitiveness. This program helps institutions develop strategic research initiatives, improve grant applications, and foster collaborations that enhance their research impact.
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  AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships (STPF): The AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships provide scientists and engineers with opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in the federal policy arena. Through these fellowships, AAAS places researchers in executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, where they contribute to policymaking, promote evidence-based decisions, and gain valuable insights into the intersection of science and public policy.
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  AAAS Early Career Awards: AAAS offers awards and grants aimed at supporting early-career scientists and engineers, helping them to advance their research and develop their careers. These awards recognize outstanding contributions to science and support promising researchers as they establish themselves in their fields.
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  AAAS EPI Center Grants (Education, Policy, and Innovation): The AAAS EPI Center provides grants and resources to promote education, policy, and innovation initiatives that enhance STEM education and improve public engagement with science. These grants support projects that develop new educational tools, promote science communication, and advocate for policies that advance STEM education.
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  AAAS Center for Public Engagement with Science and Technology Grants: This program supports initiatives that enhance public understanding of science and technology. Grants are available for projects that promote science communication, engage diverse audiences, and build public trust in science. The Center's grants support efforts to make science more accessible and inclusive, helping to bridge the gap between scientists and the public.
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  AAAS Diverse Voices in Science Journalism Grants: To promote diversity and inclusion in science journalism, AAAS provides grants to journalists from underrepresented groups. These grants support reporting on scientific topics and encourage the inclusion of diverse perspectives in science communication. The program aims to amplify the voices of journalists who bring new insights and experiences to the coverage of science.
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  AAAS Marion Milligan Mason Awards for Women in the Chemical Sciences: These awards provide funding to early-career women researchers in the chemical sciences, supporting them in their efforts to advance their research, build independent careers, and overcome barriers to success. The awards are part of AAAS's commitment to promoting gender equity in STEM fields.

Impact on Science, Education, and Society

AAAS's funding programs have a significant impact on scientific research, STEM education, and public engagement with science. Key areas of impact include:

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  Advancing Scientific Research: Through grants and expert support, AAAS enhances the quality and competitiveness of research across disciplines. By funding innovative projects and helping institutions improve their research capacity, AAAS contributes to scientific breakthroughs that drive progress.
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  Promoting Science Education and Literacy: AAAS is dedicated to improving STEM education and promoting scientific literacy at all levels. Its funding supports the development of educational tools, teacher training, and outreach programs that inspire young people to pursue careers in science and foster a deeper understanding of scientific concepts among the public.
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  Supporting Policy Engagement: The Science & Technology Policy Fellowships and related initiatives bring scientists into the policymaking process, ensuring that evidence-based research informs decisions on issues such as climate change, public health, and technological innovation. This engagement helps bridge the gap between science and policy, promoting more informed governance.
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  Fostering Diversity and Inclusion: AAAS is committed to promoting diversity in science, technology, and engineering. Its funding programs support underrepresented groups in STEM, encourage diverse voices in science journalism, and address systemic barriers to participation in the scientific enterprise.
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  Enhancing Public Engagement with Science: AAAS's grants support projects that make science accessible, engaging, and relevant to the public. By funding science communication and outreach initiatives, AAAS helps to build trust in science, counter misinformation, and promote a culture of curiosity and critical thinking.

Promoting Equity and Inclusivity in Science

AAAS is dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion within the scientific community. The organization's funding programs emphasize support for underrepresented groups, including women, minorities, and people with disabilities, ensuring that science is more accessible and inclusive. AAAS actively works to identify and address barriers to participation, promote fair treatment and representation, and create opportunities for diverse scientists to thrive. AAAS's commitment to inclusivity extends to its public engagement efforts, which aim to connect with communities that have traditionally been marginalized or excluded from scientific discourse. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, AAAS works to make science a force for equity and social justice.