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How the American Society for Virology was founded

Wolfang K Joklik1, Sidney E Grossberg

  • 1Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.

Virology
|December 21, 2005
PubMed

Insights

The American Society for Virology (ASV) was established in 1981 by 40 virologists, marking a significant milestone in the field. This society emerged after years of discussion and a prior rejection of a dedicated section within a larger organization.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Scientific Societies
  • History of Science

Background:

  • The formation of the American Society for Virology (ASV) was preceded by a long period of informal discussions among leading virologists.
  • A 1966 proposal for a Virology Section within the International Association of Microbiological Societies (IAMS) was rejected, prompting independent initiatives.
  • The successful First International Congress of Virology in Helsinki in 1968 further fueled discussions about establishing a dedicated American society.

Observation:

  • An informal meeting of approximately 40 virologists occurred at Chicago O'Hare International Airport on June 9, 1981.
  • This meeting was the culmination of over 15 years of dialogue and planning within the virology community.
  • The meeting established the framework for the official founding of the ASV.

Findings:

  • The American Society for Virology was founded on June 9, 1981.
  • The ASV is the first society of its kind globally.
  • The founding meeting in Chicago laid the groundwork for the ASV's first annual meeting in 1982.

Implications:

  • The establishment of the ASV provided a dedicated platform for American virologists.
  • This event signifies the growing recognition and professionalization of the field of virology.
  • The ASV's formation facilitated organized collaboration and advancement in virological research and education.

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