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Did You Know That?

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There are a number of microscopy-oriented professional societies?

These US or North American professional societies are either about microscopy or have a strong microscopy component. There are many more societies if you look outside the North American region of the world.

  • Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities (ABRF) - Light Microscopy Research Group - Our goal is to promote scientific exchange between researchers, specifically those in core facilities in order to increase our general knowledge and experience. We seek to provide a forum for multi-site experiments exploring “standards” for the field of light microscopy. ABRF has regional chapters within the US.
  • BioImaging North America - Was established in 2018 with a mission of "Engaging bioimaging scientists across North America by creating an inclusive and supportive community to share, advance and succeed together." Funding from the Chan-Zuckerberg Institute has allowed this new society to grow rapidly.
  • Microscopy Society of America (MSA) - dedicated to the promotion and advancement of techniques and applications of microscopy and microanalysis in all relevant scientific disciplines. MSA has a number of Local Affilate Societies throughout the US, including the Arizona Imaging & Microanalysis Society (AIMS). Many of the MSA's annual professional meetings are held jointly with the MAS (see below) or other international microscopy-oriented societies.

Closely related to microscopy:

  • Microanalysis Society (MAS) - to advance and disseminate knowledge concerning the principles, instrumentation and applications of microanalysis down to the atomic level. MAS has a number of Affiliated Regional Societies in the US.
  • National Society for Histotechnology (NSH) - To empower the profession of Histotechnology through collaboration, education and innovation. NSH has a number of statewide societies, including the Arizona Society for Histotechnology.
  • OPTICA (formerly the Optical Society of America) - to promote the generation, application and archiving of knowledge in optics and photonics and to disseminate this knowledge worldwide.
  • Society for Ultrastructural Pathology - fosters the application of electron microscopy in the diagnosis and research of human diseases.
  • SPIE (Society of Photographic Instrumentation Engineers) - to advance emerging light-based technologies through interdisciplinary information exchange, continuing education, publications, career development, and advocacy.

There are also a number of online forums and microscopy-related email lists for discussion and/or asking technical questions.