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Close-up view of a wild-type Junonia coenia wing eyespot pattern. Zhang et al. used CRISPR mutagenesis to interfere with the genetic machinery necessary for making melanin pigments in the colored scales of the butterfly wing. See Zhang et al.

About

Founded in 1931, the Genetics Society of America (GSA) is the professional membership organization for scientific researchers and educators in the field of genetics. Our members work to advance knowledge in the basic mechanisms of inheritance, from the molecular to the population level.

European subspecies of common chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita abietinus) at a stop-over site in central Sweden during fall migration 2017. See Talla et al. Vol 7: 3983–3998.

Our Mission

GSA serves an international community of scientists who use genetics to make new discoveries and improve lives. We advance biological research by supporting professional development of scientists, by communicating advances and fostering collaboration through scholarly publishing and conferences, and by advocating for science and for scientists. We seek to cultivate an inclusive, diverse research community that engages with the public, communicates the excitement and implications of discovery, and serves as an authoritative source of information.

Nicole Green, GSA member

Our Members

Using the tools of genetics and genomics, nearly 6,000 GSA members from more than 50 countries around the world investigate a wide variety of biological questions and applications. They come from all career stages—from undergraduate to emeritus—and work in academia, research institutes, industry, and other scientific and educational settings. Our members govern the Society through an elected Board of Directors and serve in countless volunteer roles to ensure the success of GSA programs.

Our History

GSA has a rich history spanning the development of our field. More than a century ago, the first article published in the journal GENETICS established that chromosomes are the carriers of inheritance. In 1931, GSA was created from a reorganization of existing societies to better serve the flourishing field of genetics. 

Two years later, GSA member Thomas Hunt Morgan was awarded a Nobel Prize, and since then, more than 20 members have become Nobel Laureates, including 1945 GSA President Barbara McClintock. Their outstanding contributions emerged from the work of our entire collaborative, innovative research community.

Image: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Archives

1932 GSA President L.C. Dunn and 1945 GSA President Barbara McClintock. Dunn was Editor-in-Chief of GENETICS 1936-1939.

Pillars of the Community

Compiled by working groups comprised of GSA members, the following pillars are the basis upon which the Strategic Plan will be built. These pillars both build on our existing strengths and align our efforts with aspirational goals for the future:

  • Support the professional development of our members, including at early and mid-career stages, and across all sectors of the workforce
  • Advance science through scholarly peer review and high-quality publishing
  • Connect and encourage collaboration between scientists through hosting conferences
  • Foster a diverse and inclusive international community of scientists
  • Serve as an authoritative voice of the genetics community
  • Advocate for science and scientists, including informing the public and legislators about the value of research from the genetics community
  • Support the genetics community in engaging and communicating with the public
  • Ensure fiscal sustainability of the Society and its programs

“The GSA stands out from other scientific associations in that it is very active in promoting activities and opportunities for career growth. I am very excited about the opportunity to contribute back!”

Bernarda Calla, Career Development Subcommittee member
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