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American Scientist
American Scientist
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American Scientist
American Scientist cover
Cover of the 2007 September–October issue
Editor In ChiefFenella Saunders
CategoriesScience
Frequency6/year
Circulation99,500[1]
PublisherSigma Xi
First issue1913
CountryUnited States
Based inResearch Triangle Park, North Carolina
LanguageEnglish
Websiteamericanscientist.org
ISSN0003-0996

American Scientist (informally abbreviated AmSci) is an American bimonthly science and technology magazine published since 1913 by Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society. In the beginning of 2000s the headquarters was moved to Research Triangle Park, (Durham), North Carolina. Each issue includes feature articles written by scientists and engineers who review research in fields from molecular biology to computer engineering.

Each issue also includes the work of cartoonists, including those of Sidney Harris, Benita Epstein, and Mark Heath. Also included is the Scientists' Nightstand that reviews a vast range of science-related books and novels.

American Scientist Online (ISSN 1545-2786) was launched in May 2003.[2]

References

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from Grokipedia
American Scientist is an illustrated bimonthly magazine dedicated to , , and , published by , The Scientific Research Honor Society, since 1913. Originally launched as the Sigma Xi Quarterly to foster communication among scientific scholars, it was renamed American Scientist in 1942, a title first suggested in the late 1930s, to better reflect its evolving illustrated format and broader appeal. Sigma Xi, founded in 1886 at as an to recognize excellence in scientific research, uses the magazine as a key platform to promote interdisciplinary dialogue and public understanding of scientific advancements. Each issue features in-depth articles authored by leading researchers, covering topics from to , alongside book reviews in the "Scientists' Nightstand" section and contributions to online blogs like Macroscope. With an ISSN of 0003-0996, the magazine reaches Sigma Xi's nearly 60,000 members worldwide, as well as institutional and individual subscribers through print and digital editions, and has earned numerous awards for its quality journalism, including four Apex Awards in 2025. In addition to the core publication, American Scientist extends its reach via podcasts and a digital edition launched in 2021, emphasizing accessible explanations of complex research for curious readers in the and beyond.

History

Founding and early publication

The Sigma Xi Quarterly was founded in 1913 by , the Scientific Research , as a means to foster communication and interest among its members in scientific research and society affairs. The initiative stemmed from recommendations by early leaders, including former president Samuel W. Williston, who advocated for a quarterly bulletin to enhance engagement and provide a platform for sharing updates on scientific progress and organizational activities. The first issue appeared in March 1913, marking the launch of Volume 1, Number 1, and establishing a quarterly schedule that continued through 1942. Content in these emphasized short reports, chapter news, convention proceedings, and accessible scientific summaries, tailored primarily to the society's and members in and sciences. This focus aligned with Sigma Xi's mission to honor excellence in while building camaraderie, as the helped connect members across emerging chapters. The Quarterly's development paralleled Sigma Xi's growth from its 1886 origins at to a national network of chapters; by 1913, the society encompassed at least a dozen active chapters at institutions like Stanford, , Purdue, and , supporting broader dissemination of its content. Early oversight involved an editorial committee that included figures such as Henry Baldwin Ward, the society's long-serving secretary who contributed to shaping its structure and records from the outset. By the early 1940s, George A. Baitsell, a Yale , assumed editorial responsibilities starting in 1940, aiding in the publication's foundational evolution during this period.

Name change and expansion

In 1942, the Sigma Xi Quarterly was renamed American Scientist to broaden its appeal to a wider audience of scientists and the scientifically curious, beyond just members of the society. This rebranding, which took effect with the first issue carrying the new title that year, marked a pivotal shift toward more engaging content for general scientific readership. New regular features, such as "The Scientist’s Book Shelf" for book reviews and "Marginalia" for commentary on scientific topics, were introduced in 1943 to enhance the publication's depth and variety. Following , American Scientist expanded its scope to emphasize feature articles on emerging scientific fields, including and , reflecting the era's postwar boom in research and . Circulation grew significantly during the , driven by heightened public and professional interest in science amid events like the and increased federal funding for research. By the late , the magazine had solidified its role as a key outlet for accessible . In the , American Scientist underwent further transformations, adopting a full-size illustrated bimonthly format and introducing color illustrations to make complex ideas more visually compelling and appealing to readers. These changes, implemented around 1970, allowed for richer depictions of scientific concepts and contributed to the publication's enduring popularity. The relocation of Sigma Xi's headquarters from , to , , in 1990 initially created production challenges for the magazine, as the editorial staff—tied to the Yale community—chose to remain in place, leading to a period of operational separation between the society's administration and the publication's team. This arrangement persisted into the early 2000s, influencing and while preserving the magazine's .

Recent developments

In 2005, Fenella Saunders joined the staff of American Scientist and progressively advanced to the role of , where she has emphasized accessible science writing by guiding scientists in developing engaging narratives without oversimplifying complex concepts. Following 2010, the magazine adapted to evolving reader interests by increasing coverage of interdisciplinary topics, such as climate science and , reflecting broader scientific discourse on global challenges and technological advancements. At the end of 2021, American Scientist launched a new digital edition to enhance interactivity and , transitioning subscribers to a platform that supports integration starting with the January–February 2022 issue. Key operational developments in the included the relocation of headquarters to a new facility in , , in 2015 to support ongoing publications amid regional growth in scientific institutions. In 2022, opened a new international headquarters at Frontier RTP, further enhancing facilities for the society's operations, including American Scientist. To address digital shifts, the magazine expanded its online presence with featuring audio interviews and discussions on scientific topics, as well as covering timely issues like innovation during the . These updates complemented the bimonthly print issues while adapting to broader trends in .

Publisher and organization

Sigma Xi: The Scientific Research Honor Society

, The Scientific Research Honor Society, was founded in 1886 at by a group of students and junior faculty member Frank Van Vleck, with the initial aim of honoring excellence in scientific research and fostering companionship among researchers. The society's first president was Henry Shaler Williams, , and its early emphasized "friendship in science" to form a brotherhood in science and . From its origins with an engineering focus, evolved into a multidisciplinary spanning all fields of science and technology, expanding rapidly in the early 20th century with new chapters at institutions like Harvard and MIT during the 1920s and 1930s. By 1950, membership had grown to 42,000, reflecting its broadening scope beyond engineering to encompass pure and applied sciences globally. The society's mission is to enhance the health of the research enterprise, foster integrity in science and engineering, and promote the public's understanding of science to improve the human condition. As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, Sigma Xi promotes cooperation among scientists through recognition of achievements and support for research initiatives, including grants and chapter-based activities that encourage collaboration across disciplines. Its vision positions it as the global interdisciplinary society advancing ethics and excellence in scientific and engineering research, guided by values of diversity, companionship, and service to advance knowledge through research, teaching, and public engagement. Organizationally, Sigma Xi comprises more than 500 chapters at colleges, universities, government laboratories, and industry research centers worldwide, facilitating local recognition of scientific talent and community-building. As of recent reports, it has nearly 100,000 members across more than 100 countries, including over 200 winners, connecting scientists and engineers of all generations. Key programs include the Grants in Aid of Research, established in 1922 to fund undergraduate and graduate student projects up to $5,000 (for graduate students) and $2,000 (for undergraduates), and the Distinguished Lectureships program, launched in 1937, which subsidizes chapter-hosted talks by prominent scientists to inspire and educate. Influential past presidents, such as Nobel laureate Frederick Robbins and microbiologist Rita Colwell, have shaped its direction, emphasizing multidisciplinary impact and integrity in research.

Role of American Scientist in Sigma Xi

American Scientist serves as the flagship publication of , The Scientific Research , functioning primarily as a vehicle to disseminate accessible scientific research and insights to the society's members and the broader public, thereby fulfilling Sigma Xi's educational mandate established since its founding in 1913. The magazine bridges the gap between specialized research and general understanding, aligning with Sigma Xi's core objectives of honoring scientific achievement, advancing the health of the research enterprise, and promoting public engagement with science. Integration of American Scientist with Sigma Xi's operations is deeply embedded in membership benefits and activities. All members receive a complimentary print or digital subscription as part of their annual dues, ensuring widespread access to the bimonthly issues among the society's nearly 100,000 members worldwide. Articles are frequently authored by Sigma Xi honorees and prominent researchers, reinforcing the society's recognition of excellence in scientific inquiry. Additionally, the magazine supports chapter events and award processes; for instance, the George Bugliarello Prize, a $5,000 award, honors outstanding essays or reviews published in its pages, integrating editorial content with 's honors program. The publication enhances member engagement by providing high-quality, illustrated content that fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and keeps scientists informed on emerging topics, while also aiding efforts through showcases of society-affiliated research that highlight Sigma Xi's prestige. This role strengthens community ties, as members often cite the magazine as a key benefit that sustains their involvement in the society's mission-driven activities. Annual production of American Scientist is funded primarily through Sigma Xi membership dues and advertising revenue, reflecting the society's non-profit status as a 501(c)(3) organization. While maintaining editorial independence through a dedicated team led by an editor-in-chief, the magazine's content remains aligned with Sigma Xi's ethos of integrity in science and public outreach, ensuring it advances the society's goals without compromising journalistic standards.

Publication details

Format and frequency

American Scientist is published bimonthly, with six issues released each year: –February, March–April, May–June, July–August, September–October, and November–December. The magazine adheres to , 16th edition, employing the author-date citation system for references. Produced in English and headquartered in , , it carries the print 0003-0996. The print edition features a full-color illustrated format on high-quality paper, printed via web offset and perfect bound, with trim dimensions of 8 3/16 by 10 7/8 inches. Each issue typically spans 60 to 100 pages, incorporating photographs, diagrams, graphs, and fine art to enhance scientific explanations. Since the end of 2021, digital PDF replicas of the print issues have been provided to subscribers, offering interactive reading features such as one-click navigation across up to five devices and a read-aloud option. This transition improved while maintaining the visual fidelity of the illustrated content.

Circulation and accessibility

American Scientist maintained a circulation of approximately 99,500 copies per issue as of 2018, encompassing both print and digital editions, according to the publisher's media kit from that year. This figure reflected a pass-along rate of about 1.81 readers per copy as of 2018, extending its reach among a targeted of scientists, educators, and enthusiasts who seek accessible insights into research across disciplines. Subscription models are designed to broaden access while supporting the publication's mission. Membership in , The Scientific Research Honor Society, includes complimentary access to either the print or digital edition, with an additional $20 fee for the combined format; this benefit underscores the magazine's role as a core society perk. Non-members can opt for individual subscriptions at $33 annually for print or digital, or $40 for both, while institutional subscriptions cater to libraries and organizations; single issues are also available for purchase through the official website. These options ensure affordability for diverse readers interested in bimonthly content on scientific advancements. Accessibility extends globally, with print issues delivered via international mail and digital editions available online across devices. Full archives dating back to 1913 are preserved on , enabling scholarly access to historical volumes for researchers and institutions. On the American Scientist website, registered users receive complimentary access to one article per month, while select open-access pieces are freely available to promote wider dissemination of scientific knowledge.

Content and editorial approach

Types of articles

American Scientist primarily publishes feature articles as its core content, which are in-depth explorations of scientific topics written by leading . These articles typically range from 3,000 to 5,000 words and focus on summarizing original peer-reviewed or closely related work conducted by the authors themselves. Written in accessible, non-technical language, they target an audience of practicing , engineers, and enthusiasts who can grasp complex concepts but may lack expertise in the specific field discussed. The scope of feature articles encompasses a broad array of disciplines, including biological and physical sciences, , , applied sciences, quantitative social sciences, , . They often highlight current discoveries and address interdisciplinary issues, such as the ethical implications of or the scientific challenges of . For instance, topics have included advancements in AI authorship ethics and innovations. Feature articles are selected through a rigorous process involving unsolicited submissions from qualified scientists. Authors submit abstracts or outlines via an online form, which are reviewed by the editorial board during meetings held approximately every eight weeks; accepted pieces undergo further development and are published within 2 to 12 months. The emphasis is on providing original summaries of , ensuring the content advances understanding of significant scientific developments. Each feature article incorporates visual and referential elements to enhance clarity and credibility, including 8 to 12 figures such as diagrams, photographs, or graphs, and a short formatted in author-date style. A representative example is "A Revolutionary Drug to Treat and Prevent Infection" by John Raul Somoza, published in the September-October 2025 issue, which details two decades of research on , a antiretroviral therapy.

Regular features and columns

American Scientist includes several recurring departments that provide supplementary content to its feature articles, enhancing reader engagement through reviews, visual humor, correspondence, and observational essays on broader scientific contexts. These elements are designed to appeal to non-specialist readers by offering accessible insights into , , , and culture. The Scientists' Nightstand column, which began in the late , features curated reviews and essays on science-related , covering topics from and physics to interdisciplinary works. Edited by staff such as Taylor (2000–2011 and 2019–2022) and currently Jaime Herndon, it selects titles for review by experts and aims to highlight influential or emerging that inform scientific discourse. The section maintains an online of reviews dating back to 1998, allowing readers to explore recommendations across decades. Cartoons and illustrations form another staple, with Sidney Harris's science-themed drawings appearing since 1970, providing witty commentary on research quirks and laboratory life. Over 600 of Harris's cartoons have been published in the magazine, often accompanying articles to lighten complex topics. Custom illustrations, overseen by Barbara Aulicino since 2004, are created specifically for features, emphasizing clear visual explanations of scientific concepts through nature-inspired and diagrammatic art. These elements, managed by Cartoon Editor Mia B. Evans, contribute to the magazine's approachable tone for general audiences. Letters to the Editor serve as a forum for reader feedback on recent issues, with submissions encouraged to address specific articles or columns in a timely manner. This department fosters dialogue among the and lay readers, often touching on implications for or emerging debates. Additionally, the Science Observer section offers short observational pieces on behind-the-scenes aspects of science, including historical developments, matters, and current events, providing concise updates that complement the magazine's in-depth reporting. These features collectively enrich the publication by balancing rigorous content with engaging, reflective material.

Editorial staff

Current leadership

As of 2025, Fenella Saunders serves as the Editor-in-Chief of American Scientist, a position she has held since 2017 after joining the staff in 2005 and progressing through roles as managing editor and executive editor. Saunders, who holds a BA in computer science from Duke University and an MA in psychology and animal behavior from Hunter College, brings extensive experience in science journalism, including prior work at NYU School of Medicine and DISCOVER magazine. In her leadership role, she oversees the magazine's content strategy, fosters author relations, and provides final approvals on articles to ensure alignment with the publication's mission of accessible science communication. The publisher of American Scientist is Jamie L. Vernon, who also acts as the Executive Director and CEO of , the magazine's parent organization. Vernon, with a PhD in cell and molecular biology from the , an MS in from , and a BS in zoology from , previously served as from 2014 to 2017 and emphasizes and policy in her oversight of the publication's operations. Supporting the editorial process is Stacey Lutkoski, a certified with an MA in history from the , an MPhil in historical studies from the , and a BA in history and English from ; her background in aids in coordinating production timelines and editorial workflows. The editorial team further includes key contributors such as Associate Editor Nicholas Gerbis, who focuses on interdisciplinary topics with his MS in journalism from Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School and advanced degrees in ; Digital Managing Editor Nwabata Nnani, who joined in July 2023 with a BS in and Mass Communication from North Carolina A&T State University; Digital Features Editor Katie Burke; Art Director Barbara Aulicino; and Editorial Associate Mia Evans, collectively managing , design, and digital enhancements. This multidisciplinary team, drawing from expertise in , science, , and , ensures rigorous vetting of submissions while maintaining the magazine's high standards for clarity and visual appeal.

Historical editors

The Sigma Xi Quarterly, the predecessor to American Scientist, was established in 1913 under the oversight of the society's secretary, Henry Baldwin Ward, who emphasized content on society news, chapter reports, and member activities during its formative years in the and . Edward Ellery succeeded Ward as secretary in 1922 and assumed editorial responsibilities, guiding the publication for over two decades and presiding over its 1942 renaming to American Scientist, a change that aimed to reflect a broader appeal to the beyond internal society matters. In the early 1940s, Dr. Stetson briefly served as editor but resigned due to deteriorating health and conflicting duties as editor of a monthly magazine. George A. Baitsell then edited the publication from 1940 to 1954, maintaining its quarterly format while fostering contributions from prominent scientists during a period of wartime and postwar scientific expansion. Hugh S. Taylor replaced Baitsell in 1955 and led as editor until 1970; during his tenure in the mid-century, the magazine transitioned to a larger bimonthly format with enhanced illustrations and diversified topics across disciplines, significantly elevating its visual and intellectual accessibility. Subsequent editors, including Rosalind Reid (1992–2008), David Schoonmaker (2008–2013), and Jamie Vernon (2014–2017), built on this foundation by professionalizing feature articles, introducing more interdisciplinary content and online presence, and refining the editorial process to emphasize clear for a general audience, leading to Fenella Saunders becoming in 2017.

Digital presence

Website and online archives

The official website of American Scientist, americanscientist.org, was launched in May 2003 as American Scientist Online (ISSN 1545-2786), marking a significant expansion from the magazine's earlier modest online presence that began in 1995. This development extended the publication's reach to a global audience by providing digital access to its content beyond print distribution limits. Key features of the website include article previews available to all visitors, with full-text access restricted to subscribers and members of Sigma Xi, the sponsoring scientific honor society. Users can search and browse content by scientific topics such as biology, physics, chemistry, and engineering, facilitating targeted exploration of the magazine's articles and issues. The online archives encompass the complete run of American Scientist issues dating back to its founding in 1913, hosted through JSTOR for scholarly preservation and access. While abstracts and previews are freely available on the website and via JSTOR, full articles remain paywalled, requiring institutional or individual subscriptions for complete viewing. In late 2021, the magazine introduced an upgraded digital edition platform, enhancing mobile compatibility and providing optimized viewing across devices like smartphones and tablets to improve . This update includes features such as one-click reading on multiple devices and notifications for new issues, further supporting the transition from print to digital formats.

Additional digital content

American Scientist extends its reach through dynamic offerings that complement its print and online archives. The , rebooted in 2015 after originating as a column in 1995, focuses on emerging trends, issues, and interdisciplinary insights, with contributions from guest scientists in fields like , , and conservation. The publication's podcast series, launched on in the early , provides audio adaptations of feature articles alongside in-depth author interviews and discussions on topics such as , , and information processing. By November 2025, the American Scientist includes numerous episodes, such as those from the limited series Wired for This, which explores human psychology and . Additional formats encompass the Scientists' Nightstand eNewsletter, which delivers curated book reviews, discussions, and literary insights related to , as well as short video content highlighting key article themes, like medical innovations and environmental phenomena. These elements integrate with channels for real-time topic updates and .

Recognition and impact

Awards received

American Scientist has garnered numerous accolades for its editorial and design excellence, particularly through the EXCEL Awards presented by the Association Media & Publishing Association (AM&P). In 2023, the magazine received four EXCEL Awards: a for Journals Cover Design for the –December 2022 issue titled "The Future of Ukrainian Science"; a Silver for Journals Excellence, recognizing the , March–April, and May–June 2022 issues; a for Journals General Excellence, honoring the May–June, July–August, and September–October 2022 issues; and a for Best New for the article "Putting Eggs in Many Baskets" by John Eadie, Bruce Edward Lyon, and Eli Samuel Bridge. These awards highlight the magazine's strong visual and content innovation, building on prior recognition. The previous year, in 2022, American Scientist earned four Silver EXCEL Awards: for Journals General Excellence (July–August, September–October, and November–December 2021 issues); Journals Feature Article ("Enter the " by in the May–June 2021 issue); Journals Design Excellence (May–June, July–August, and September–October 2021 issues); and Promotional Content: Social Media Feed ( page). This streak underscores consistent excellence in storytelling and digital engagement. In 2025, American Scientist was honored with a Grand Award from the APEX Awards for Publication Excellence for the article "Estuaries Face a Stormy Future" by Michael J. Kennish, Hans W. Paerl, and Joseph R. Crosswell, which examines threats to coastal ecosystems through and compelling visuals. Published in the September–October 2024 issue, this recognition emphasizes the magazine's impact in science journalism on environmental topics. Additionally, American Scientist has earned perennial recognition for its illustration quality since the , contributing to its reputation for visually engaging content.

Influence on science communication

Since its founding in 1913 by , the Scientific Research Honor Society, American Scientist has played a pivotal role in bridging academic research and the through accessible, non-technical writing that explains complex scientific concepts. The magazine's mission emphasizes fostering appreciation of by featuring articles written by leading researchers, thereby democratizing knowledge and encouraging informed among non-experts. This approach has influenced standards by prioritizing clarity, interdisciplinary perspectives, and evidence-based narratives, setting a model for communicating scientific advancements without oversimplification. The publication's legacy includes contributions to key scientific discourses, such as , through in-depth coverage of topics like communication and ecological controversies, which have informed and policymaker understanding of pressing issues. Over its more than 100 years, American Scientist has featured work by prominent scientists, enhancing the visibility of groundbreaking research and promoting ethical standards in science reporting. Its archives serve as a valuable resource in educational curricula, with granting free permissions for classroom use and distributing the magazine to high schools to support STEM teaching with credible, accessible content. In the modern era, particularly the 2020s, American Scientist has emphasized principles amid rising challenges from , publishing articles that advocate for transparency in practices and equitable access to scientific outputs. The magazine also promotes diversity in STEM voices by addressing barriers faced by underrepresented groups and highlighting inclusive perspectives in communication. This focus aligns with broader efforts to cite the publication in educational contexts for its non-technical explanations, reinforcing its enduring impact on public literacy.

References

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