Alone we can do so little...
Together we can do so much
For 77 years we've supported biologists and biology, and connected science organizations.
We'd like to match your interests with our important initiatives.
Who we are & how you can help
Founded in 1947, today AIBS is a nonprofit (EIN 53-0220853) with 104 member organizations, and we work to promote the use of science to inform decision making for the advancement of the biological sciences and society. In addition, we also publish the peer-reviewed journal BioScience, provide scientific peer-review and advisory services, and collaborate with others to advance public policy, education, and the public understanding of science.
Evidence-based decisions are crucial to advancing all life on Earth – we are here to help provide and promote them.
Public Policy Initiatives
AIBS advocates for public policy that advances biology and serves the needs of researchers, educators, and other biological science professionals. Our programs enable scientists to play an active role in the policymaking process:
- Each year, AIBS brings scientists and graduate students to Washington, DC, to meet with members of Congress about the importance of federal investments in scientific research.
- AIBS also enables scientists to meet with their elected officials in their home state to educate them about the scientific research and facilities in their district.
- Scientists can also shape science policy through the AIBS Legislative Action Center, an online tool that enables scientists to provide timely input to lawmakers on pending legislation.
- Since 2003, AIBS has recognized dozens of graduate students with a demonstrated capacity for leadership at the interface of science and public policy. Winners of the Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, DC, where they receive communications and advocacy training, meet with members of Congress, and get a firsthand look at how federal dollars are allocated for scientific research.
- AIBS established the IDEA2 Public Policy Fellowship in 2024 in partnership with the Southeastern Universities Research Association. This professional development opportunity provides young scientists with valuable first-hand experience in science policy.
Your tax-deductible donation will help AIBS inform policymakers to ensure their decisions are based on sound science and are responsive to the needs of the scientific community.
Support our Public Policy Initiatives
Science of Peer Review Initiatives
AIBS serves as a center of excellence and leader in studying how the research funding process (particularly peer review) affects scientific outcomes, and how we can reduce bias, maximize innovation, and streamline efficiencies to promote the best science in the most equitable and effective way.
Donations to this initiative support this important line of research and the communication of our findings to policymakers and the public.
Support our Science of Peer Review Initiatives
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Initiatives
AIBS is committed to taking intentional steps to increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in the biological sciences. Our work in these area centers around our core activities of assessment, training, communication, and advocacy. Our efforts are outlined in our Diversity Plan.
Donations to this initiative will support programs that increase representation of, training of, advocacy for, and collaboration with underrepresented minorities, minority serving institutions and organizations as well as other like-minded organizations.
Support our DEI Initiatives
Faces of Biology Photo Contest
Since 2011, this contest has highlighted biologists at work, showing their fascinating careers in laboratories, in the field, as they educate incoming scientists, and more.
Donating helps others understand something you already do -- the process and value of biology and science. (If you're with an organization interested in becoming a contest sponsor, please write to us to learn more.)
Support our Faces of Biology Photo Contest
✽ You can also give unrestricted to our general efforts
AIBS is committed to promoting the use of science to inform decisions that advance the biological sciences for the benefit of science and society. We need your support to help achieve our mission.
Every dollar matters. Please consider making a donation today.
Support our General Efforts
If you have further questions about matching our programs to your giving goals, let us know via our contact form, and select "Donations" for the department.
