Historic agreement for international chemistry co-operation
Mr. Albert G. Horvath, Chief Executive of American Chemical Society (ACS), joined Dr. Helen Pain, Chief Executive of the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) in signing a memorandum of understanding between our two societies.
The signing ceremony is a celebration of international cooperation in chemistry, held against the backdrop of the congress of our sister organisation, EuChemS – the European Chemical Society – which is taking place in Dublin this week.
The Memorandum of Understanding aims “to co-operate for the establishment of a continuous communication and exchange in the field of chemistry and related areas of knowledge for the benefit of both United States and United Kingdom chemical sciences communities and the future successes of both societies”.
RSC CEO, Helen Pain, said: “Chemistry knows no borders and it is only through international cooperation that we will realise its true potential in combating the many challenges our global communities face. We are proud to sign this agreement with ACS, to continue our joint support of the chemical scientists whose work continues to make the world a better place.”
ACS CEO, Albert G. Horvath, said: “ACS is pleased to continue its partnership with RSC through this agreement. Both RSC and ACS have a similar history of supporting chemists and chemical engineers in their pursuit of a better world for close to two centuries and this agreement bolsters our abilities. This agreement reflects our shared goal of fostering a stronger chemical enterprise across the globe. Together we will have greater impact.”
A shared commitment
ACS and RSC have a shared interest in advancing the chemistry enterprise, and its practitioners, in addressing global challenges confronting humanity. Toward that end, ACS and RSC enter into a three-year agreement, a “Partnership for the Goals” guided by the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in order to encourage:
- Awareness and participation at scientific meetings, organised under the sponsorships of ACS and/or the RSC, of US and UK chemists in both countries.
- Joint sponsorship and/or organisation of scientific, educational and/or social events for scientific exchange and promotion of public awareness of chemistry and related areas incorporating the UN Sustainable Development Goals whenever possible to ensure a more diverse and inclusive chemical sciences community and innovative culture in both US and the UK.
- Develop opportunities to recognise emerging talent and excellence in chemical sciences in both countries with a focus on supporting early career chemists.
- Work in partnership with other relevant parties to support joint activities and projects for common interests in UK and US.
The Royal Society of Chemistry and ACS first signed a memorandum of understanding in 2009, so this agreement continues our tradition of international cooperation.
