American Chemical Society

Overview

The American Chemical Society (ACS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress. It is one of the world's largest scientific societies, with a mission to advance the broader chemistry enterprise and its practitioners for the benefit of Earth and all its people.

History

The ACS was founded on April 6, 1876, at New York University. Over the years, it has evolved into a global leader in the field of chemistry, supporting scientific research and education through various programs and initiatives.

Membership and Structure

The ACS has a global membership of over 200,000 individuals across 140 countries. It operates through 186 local sections in the United States and numerous international chapters. The organization is structured into various divisions that cover specialized areas of chemistry, including organic chemistry, chemical education, and more.

Journals and Publications

ACS Publications is a leading publisher of scientific journals, producing over 80 peer-reviewed publications, including the prestigious Journal of the American Chemical Society and Chemical & Engineering News. These journals are recognized for their high impact and are among the most cited in the field of chemistry.

Programs and Initiatives

The ACS supports various educational and research initiatives, such as:

• ACS Scholars Program: Provides scholarships and mentoring to underrepresented minority students in the chemical sciences.
• Project SEED: Offers high school students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to conduct research under the guidance of chemical scientists.
• Advancing Chemistry Teaching: Supports the professional development of chemistry teachers.
• ACS Green Chemistry Institute: Promotes the use of green chemistry principles.

Impact and Operations

The ACS hosts national and international conferences, including the biannual ACS National Meetings, which cover all areas of chemistry. It also provides access to extensive databases through its Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS), which is a critical resource for researchers worldwide.

Controversies

Despite its non-profit status and commitment to disseminating chemical information, the ACS has faced criticism for its pricing policies and copyright enforcement practices.