**American Physiological Society**
**Definition**
The American Physiological Society (APS) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement and dissemination of knowledge in the physiological sciences. Founded in 1887, APS supports research, education, and advocacy efforts to promote the understanding of physiology and its application to health and disease.
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# American Physiological Society
## Introduction
The American Physiological Society (APS) is a leading scientific society committed to fostering the study and advancement of physiology, the branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts. Since its establishment in 1887, APS has played a pivotal role in promoting research, education, and communication among physiologists worldwide. The society serves as a hub for scientists, educators, and students interested in the mechanisms underlying biological function, from molecular and cellular processes to whole-organism physiology.
## History
### Founding and Early Years
The American Physiological Society was founded on December 30, 1887, by a group of 28 physiologists who sought to create a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of physiological research in the United States. The founding members included prominent scientists such as Henry Pickering Bowditch, who became the society’s first president. The initial goal was to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and to promote the development of physiology as a distinct scientific discipline.
In its early years, APS focused on organizing meetings and publishing research findings. The society’s first journal, *American Journal of Physiology*, was launched in 1898 and quickly became a leading publication in the field. The journal provided a platform for disseminating original research and reviews, helping to establish APS as a central institution in physiological science.
### Growth and Development
Throughout the 20th century, APS expanded its membership and activities in response to the growing complexity and diversity of physiological research. The society broadened its scope to include emerging subfields such as neurophysiology, cardiovascular physiology, and molecular physiology. APS also increased its commitment to education and public outreach, recognizing the importance of training the next generation of physiologists and informing the public about the significance of physiological research.
The society’s annual meetings became major events for the presentation of new scientific discoveries and the exchange of ideas. APS also developed specialized sections and interest groups to support researchers working in specific areas of physiology.
### Modern Era
In recent decades, APS has embraced technological advances and interdisciplinary approaches to physiology. The society has expanded its publishing portfolio to include multiple journals covering various aspects of physiology, such as *Journal of Applied Physiology*, *Physiological Genomics*, and *Function*. APS has also enhanced its digital presence, offering online resources, webinars, and virtual meetings to reach a global audience.
The society continues to advocate for funding and policies that support physiological research and education. APS collaborates with other scientific organizations and government agencies to promote the role of physiology in addressing health challenges and advancing biomedical science.
## Mission and Objectives
The mission of the American Physiological Society is to advance the knowledge of physiology through research, education, and dissemination of scientific information. The society aims to:
– Promote the study and understanding of physiological processes in health and disease.
– Support the professional development of physiologists at all career stages.
– Facilitate communication and collaboration among researchers, educators, and students.
– Advocate for funding and policies that enable physiological research.
– Provide educational resources and training opportunities.
– Increase public awareness of the importance of physiology in medicine and biology.
## Membership
### Composition
APS membership includes a diverse group of individuals involved in physiological research and education. Members range from students and early-career scientists to established investigators and educators. The society also welcomes clinicians, educators, and other professionals interested in physiology.
### Membership Categories
APS offers several membership categories to accommodate different career stages and professional interests:
– **Regular Members:** Scientists actively engaged in physiological research or education.
– **Student Members:** Graduate and undergraduate students pursuing studies in physiology or related fields.
– **Postdoctoral Members:** Individuals engaged in postdoctoral training.
– **Emeritus Members:** Retired members who have made significant contributions to the society.
– **Affiliate Members:** Professionals with an interest in physiology but not directly involved in research.
### Benefits
Members of APS receive numerous benefits, including access to society journals, discounted registration for meetings, eligibility for awards and grants, networking opportunities, and access to educational resources.
## Publications
### Journals
The American Physiological Society publishes a suite of peer-reviewed journals that cover a broad spectrum of physiological research. These journals serve as primary outlets for disseminating original research, reviews, and commentaries.
Key APS journals include:
– **American Journal of Physiology (AJP):** The flagship journal, divided into multiple sections focusing on different physiological systems such as heart and circulatory physiology, cell physiology, regulatory, integrative and comparative physiology, and more.
– **Journal of Applied Physiology:** Focuses on research related to the physiological responses and adaptations to environmental and exercise stress.
– **Physiological Genomics:** Publishes research on the genetic basis of physiological function.
– **Function:** A newer journal emphasizing integrative and translational physiology.
– **Advances in Physiology Education:** Dedicated to educational research and innovations in physiology teaching.
### Other Publications
APS also produces newsletters, position statements, and educational materials to support its members and the broader scientific community.
## Meetings and Conferences
### Annual Meeting
The APS annual meeting is a major event that brings together physiologists from around the world to present new research, share ideas, and foster collaborations. The meeting features plenary lectures, symposia, poster sessions, and workshops covering a wide range of physiological topics.
### Specialized Conferences
In addition to the annual meeting, APS organizes smaller, focused conferences and workshops on emerging areas of physiology. These events provide opportunities for in-depth discussion and networking among specialists.
### Virtual and Hybrid Events
In response to evolving needs and technological advances, APS has incorporated virtual and hybrid formats for meetings and educational programs, increasing accessibility for members globally.
## Education and Training
### Educational Resources
APS is committed to supporting physiology education at all levels. The society provides a variety of resources, including teaching guides, laboratory manuals, and online modules designed to enhance physiology instruction.
### Professional Development
APS offers professional development opportunities such as career workshops, mentoring programs, and leadership training to help members advance their careers.
### Outreach and Public Engagement
The society promotes public understanding of physiology through outreach initiatives, including public lectures, science fairs, and partnerships with schools and community organizations.
## Advocacy and Public Policy
### Research Funding
APS actively advocates for sustained and increased funding for physiological research from federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). The society engages with policymakers to highlight the importance of physiology in biomedical research and public health.
### Science Policy
APS monitors and responds to policy issues affecting the scientific community, including research regulations, education policies, and workforce development. The society provides members with resources to engage in advocacy efforts.
### Public Health
APS supports initiatives that apply physiological knowledge to address public health challenges, such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and aging.
## Organizational Structure
### Governance
The American Physiological Society is governed by an elected Council, which includes the President, President-Elect, Past President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Councilors. The Council sets strategic priorities and oversees the society’s operations.
### Committees and Sections
APS has numerous committees responsible for specific functions such as publications, education, membership, and advocacy. The society also has specialized sections representing different subfields of physiology, which organize activities and provide forums for members with shared interests.
### Staff and Administration
The society employs professional staff who manage day-to-day operations, including meeting planning, publications, membership services, and communications.
## Impact and Contributions
### Scientific Contributions
APS has been instrumental in advancing physiological knowledge through its support of research and dissemination of findings. Many landmark discoveries in physiology have been published in APS journals and presented at its meetings.
### Educational Influence
The society’s commitment to education has helped shape physiology curricula and training programs worldwide. APS resources and initiatives have improved the quality and accessibility of physiology education.
### Advocacy Successes
APS’s advocacy efforts have contributed to increased awareness and funding for physiological research, influencing science policy and public health initiatives.
## Challenges and Future Directions
### Adapting to Scientific Advances
As physiology becomes increasingly interdisciplinary and technology-driven, APS faces the challenge of integrating new fields such as systems biology, bioinformatics, and personalized medicine into its scope.
### Enhancing Diversity and Inclusion
APS is working to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within its membership and leadership, recognizing the importance of diverse perspectives in advancing science.
### Expanding Global Reach
While historically focused on the United States, APS aims to strengthen its international presence and collaborations to support physiologists worldwide.
### Embracing Digital Transformation
The society continues to develop digital platforms and virtual programs to enhance member engagement and access to resources.
## Conclusion
The American Physiological Society remains a cornerstone institution in the field of physiology, dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge, education, and advocacy. Through its publications, meetings, and programs, APS fosters a vibrant community of physiologists committed to understanding the fundamental mechanisms of life and improving human health. As the field evolves, APS continues to adapt and lead, ensuring that physiology remains a vital and dynamic discipline in the biomedical sciences.
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**Meta Description:**
The American Physiological Society (APS) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing physiological research, education, and advocacy. Founded in 1887, APS supports scientists and educators worldwide through publications, meetings, and resources.