Attachments
- Resolution on Teaching Evolution (16.5 KB)
The Indiana Academy of Science, the oldest scientific society in the state, was organized December 19, 1885 in the Marion County Court House for the purpose of encouraging "scientific research and the diffusion of knowledge concerning the various departments of science; and to promote dialogue between individuals engaged in scientific work, especially in Indiana . . ." as stated in the constitution of Academy written by the seventy-one charter members.
The first scientific sessions of the Indiana Academy of Science were held in Indianapolis on December 29, 1885. Since that meeting, the Academy has continued to hold a fall and a spring meeting for over 100 years at various locations (i.e., state parks, colleges, universities, etc.) and now has over 600 members. The Academy's members share an interest in the progress of science and science education and a desire that science and scientists play a major role in the growth of Indiana.
With the rapid acceleration of knowledge in science and technology and expanding career opportunities in these areas, this is a time of great challenge for science in Indiana and the rest of the world. We need your ideas and your talents in order that the Academy may achieve the goals outlined by its founders and our current members.
What Does The Indiana Academy of Science Do?
- Provides, through its annual meeting, an opportunity for all scientists and teachers of science to exchange ideas. Through the publication of the annual Proceedings, many of the reported papers are given world-wide distribution.
- Provides a number of modest research grants each year (totaling more than $80,000) to assist science faculty and students in establishing a research program.
- Provides, through the Biological Survey Committee, a continuing record of the flora and fauna of Indiana. In addition, the Academy provides scientific advice on the preservation of valuable natural areas which are important to conservation in the state.
- Encourages an interest in science among students through the Indiana Junior Academy of Science, the Indiana Science Talent Search, science and engineering fairs, and student grants for research.
- Cooperates with state legislators by providing technical and scientific information when requested. The Academy has become increasingly important for the voice of science to be heard in the making of legislative decisions.
- Maintains lists of members who are willing to speak or do consulting work on topics of scientific interest.
- In cooperation with the Indiana State Library, the Academy maintains the John S. Wright Library, which includes more than 1,000 serial titles and other scientific references for use by the general public and by state agencies.
- Provides support for research and other programs which are beneficial to science teachers.
- Occasionally publishes high quality monographic type special publications dealing with topics that relate to Indiana.