Biology

This guide is designed to help students learn how to use K-State Libraries' many resources for studying and learning biology.

Library Research Guide

Finding Professional Organizations

Ask your instructors
Many researcher or professors have professional organizations listed on their resumes or CVs
Search Google. Use terms such as "professional association" or "professional organization"
Use the directory below

Professional Association Finder
Locate national professional associations by occupation or industry served. This list is maintained by CareerOneStop which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.

What is a Professional Organization?

A professional organization (or association) is a group of individuals who work together to support the interests of their profession, to support each other in professional development, and to regulate the profession by developing a code of ethics, licensing or certification requirements, and other guidelines. Professional organizations often offer continuing education opportunities, host conferences, and may publish white papers and reports on the profession or industry. Professional organizations are usually non-profit and many charge membership fees. In addition to the international or national organization, there may be regional or state branches.

Why should you join one?

Keep up with changes and issues related to your profession or industry
Useful resources about the profession or industry (i.e. white papers, journals, directories, databases)
Professional development opportunities
- Job lists
- Resume help
- Networking
- Training and conferences

General Biology

The links below are examples of biology associations. Use the tips to the left to see if there's a professional organization related to your research or interests.

Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB)
"We advance health and well-being by promoting research and education in biological and biomedical sciences through collaborative advocacy and service to our societies and their members." - FASEB Mission Statement
The American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB)
"ASCB is an inclusive, international community of biologists studying the cell, the fundamental unit of life. We are dedicated to advancing scientific discovery, advocating sound research policies, improving education, promoting professional development, and increasing diversity in the scientific workforce." - ASCB Mission Statement
The International Cytokine & Interferon Society (ICIS)
"Promote original research in the fields of cytokines, interferons, chemokines, growth factors and their receptors" - ICIS Mission Statement

Microbiology

Society for Industrial Microbiology (SIM)
"Empower our members and others to address current and future challenges facing humanity using industrial microbiology and biotechnology." - SIM Mission Statement
Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB)
"We advance health and well-being by promoting research and education in biological and biomedical sciences through collaborative advocacy and service to our societies and their members." - FASEB Mission Statement

Human Biology

The American Society of Human Genetics
"ASHG’s mission is to advance human genetics and genomics in science, health, and society through excellence in research, education, and advocacy." - ASHG Mission Statement
The Association for Glycogen Storage Diseases (AGSD)
"Supporting people affected by Glycogen Storage Disease to live positively with their condition." - AGSD Mission Statement

Biomolecular Studies

The Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities (ABRF)
"ABRF is a unique membership association comprising over 700 members working within or in the support of resource and research biotechnology laboratories. . . The ABRF promotes the education and career advancement of scientists. . . " - ABRF mission statement
The Society for Biomolecular Sciences
Every day, researchers, engineers, tech providers and related professionals from industry, academia and government utilize SLAS to exchange ideas, insight and answers to help tackle challenges old and new. - SLAS website

Biochemistry

Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB)
"We advance health and well-being by promoting research and education in biological and biomedical sciences through collaborative advocacy and service to our societies and their members." - FASEB Mission Statement

Finding Professional Organizations

Ask your instructors
Many researcher or professors have professional organizations listed on their resumes or CVs
Search Google. Use terms such as "professional association" or "professional organization"
Use the directory below

Professional Association Finder
Locate national professional associations by occupation or industry served. This list is maintained by CareerOneStop which is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor.