News Release

Entomological Society of America launches science policy program

New partnership with the American Institute of Biological Sciences will enable insect scientists to engage in science policy process

Business Announcement

American Institute of Biological Sciences

Washington, DC – The Entomological Society of America (ESA) and the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) announced today a new partnership that will provide ESA members with an even stronger voice in the nation's science policy debates.

The ESA is the largest organization in the world serving the professional and scientific needs of entomologists and individuals in related disciplines. Founded in 1889, ESA has more than 6,400 members affiliated with educational institutions, health agencies, private industry, and government. Members are researchers, teachers, extension service personnel, administrators, marketing representatives, research technicians, consultants, students, pest management professionals and hobbyists.

The AIBS is a scientific association dedicated to advancing biological research and education for the welfare of society. AIBS works independently and in partnership with scientific organizations to ensure that the public, legislators, funders, and the community of biologists have access to and use information that will guide them in making informed decisions. The organization does this through informing decisions by providing peer-reviewed or vetted information about the biology field and profession and by catalyzing action through building the capacity and the leadership of the biological sciences community to address matters of common concern.

"We are pleased to offer our members a new voice in science policy," said ESA Executive Director David Gammel. "Our members have a wealth of scientific information that can inform policy decisions. Through this new partnership with AIBS, our members can become effective advocates for entomology."

Richard O'Grady, AIBS Executive Director, is pleased that ESA is increasing its presence in the nation's science policy. "ESA is a well respected scientific society with a long history and a robust membership of professionals who have a lot to offer our nation's policymakers," said O'Grady.

In the coming weeks, ESA members will begin to receive new science policy analysis and information through a monthly newsletter prepared by AIBS. They will also begin to learn about opportunities to gain experience and training in communicating with policymakers, and opportunities to inform science policy debates in the nation's capital and in the states.

"This new partnership coincides with the creation of ESA's new Science Policy Committee," said ESA President Rob Wiedenmann," and it fits in well with this year's Annual Meeting theme, which is 'Science Impacting a Connected World.' We look forward to working with AIBS in the future."

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For more information about ESA: http://www.entsoc.org/

For more information about AIBS: www.aibs.org


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