What We Do

The American Institute of Biological Sciences was formed with a vision of bringing together the organizations and individuals that advance the biological sciences to work together on matters best addressed through united action. Founded in 1947 as a part of the National Academy of Sciences, AIBS became an independent, member-governed nonprofit organization in the 1950s. In late 2009, AIBS initiated a process to consider its role at the start of the 21st century and how to adapt its programs to the rapid social, technological, and economic changes that are influencing the practice of the life sciences. That process yielded a new strategic plan, launched in October of 2012. This plan refines the vision and mission of the organization, adapting it to respond to the information gathered in the long range planning process.

We envision AIBS as an organization that informs and leads research, education, and policymaking at the frontiers of the life sciences. AIBS will be the go-to organization for biology, recognized for catalyzing efforts that advance the field, improve the profession, and bring its discoveries to a broad audience.

The mission of AIBS is to enable wise decisions in which the life sciences and society meet while building the capacity of our communities to advance research and education in biology. AIBS listens; anticipates; advises; collaborates; and, when needed, leads efforts in the life sciences community to address scientific and societal challenges.

Today, AIBS works towards specific outcomes through three core activities:

• Scientific Peer Advisory and Review Services for research proposals and programs sponsored by funding organizations, including the federal government, state agencies, private research foundations, and other non-government organizations.
• BioScience, its high-impact, peer-reviewed journal, serving as a forum for integrating the life sciences.
• Community Programs that advance the field and profession of biology and promote and provide leadership, with a particular emphasis on public policy and advocacy, education, and the public understanding of science.

Click to download the AIBS Strategic Plan.