ASCB Strategic Plan

Mission

A diverse, global and multidisciplinary scientific community focused on the cell, the basic unit of all life.

Vision

To promote the study of cells at all scales and in all systems to understand life and benefit humanity.

Values

Discovery | Innovation | Inclusion | Community | Leadership | Respect | Education | Science

Strategic Priorities

1. Promoting Scientific Discovery, Technology and Innovation

2. Uniting Cell Science Communities

3. Building a Culture of Inclusion

4. Educating and Advocating for the Future of Cell Science

The American Society for Cell Biology (ASCB) continues to rebuild after the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As we look to the future, we are excited to share ASCB’s new strategic plan. This is more than just a roadmap for the future; it is a call to action for all members of our community to join us in pursuit of our common goals. It is a commitment to supporting our members in a time of rapid change. Our new plan is built on four pillars: scientific innovation and discovery, uniting communities, building a culture of inclusion, and education and advocacy to strengthen our future.

Scientific Innovation & Discovery
At the core of our mission is the advancement of cell biology through scientific innovation, technology, and discovery. We are committed to creating environments where groundbreaking research can flourish. Our new strategic plan prioritizes the acceleration of discovery through our meetings and journals. We will create new opportunities for scientists to connect and gather year-round and ensure our journals are a home for quality, trusted research from across the field and around the globe.

Uniting Communities
Science thrives in a collaborative environment. One of the cornerstones of our strategic plan is to unite the diverse communities within cell biology. By creating opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and global connection, we bring together experts from different fields and with unique perspectives who are tackling complex cell biological questions. Our annual conference will encourage interaction and knowledge-sharing among participants. We will build stronger international partnerships, facilitating collaboration between scientists from different countries and cultures. We will unite cell scientists working in both discovery-based and solution-oriented settings to bring together those who delve into fundamental biological processes and those who apply this knowledge to solve real-world problems.

Building a Culture of Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion are not just ethical imperatives but essential drivers of scientific progress. Our strategic plan emphasizes creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all cell scientists. We are committed to implementing initiatives that promote diversity within our society, from mentorship programs to policies that ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities. By embracing diverse perspectives, we can enhance the creativity and innovation that fuel the field.

Education & Advocacy for the Future
The future of cell biology depends on the next generation of scientists. Our strategic plan places a strong emphasis on education and advocacy. We will expand our year-round education and leadership opportunities to help members grow their careers. We will engage more members in advocating for science education and research funding at the national level, ensuring that our field receives the support it needs to thrive. By investing in education and advocacy, we can secure a bright future for cell biology.

Community-Driven Planning
Our new strategic plan is the result of extensive feedback from our members. We conducted surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather insights and suggestions from our diverse community. This input was invaluable in shaping our strategic priorities and ensuring that the plan reflects the needs and aspirations of our members.

This plan is a testament to ASCB’s unwavering commitment to scientific excellence, community, inclusion, and education. We invite all members of our Society to join us and get involved with the ASCB through our many activities throughout the year. Together, we can advance this exciting and critically important field and inspire the next generation of cell biologists.