Massachusetts Academy of Sciences

Welcome to the Massachusetts Academy of Sciences

Our Mission is to promote public understanding and appreciation of the sciences, to support scientific research and education in areas relevant to the needs of the state and to provide consultative or advisory services on matters of science to the Governor, and to local, state and federal agencies.

Our Motto is:
Think, Explore, Learn!

A Message From E. O. Wilson

Massachusetts is one of the world's leading centers of science. To connect its citizens to this intellectual bounty and spread its benefits to all, the Commonwealth needs a very visible organization devoted to the intersection of science, education, and public service. It also needs a consulting service to strengthen regional leadership in government and business. The Massachusetts Academy of Science is designed to fill both these roles.

- E. O. Wilson

Dr. Edward O. Wilson is one of the great minds of our time. His groundbreaking research, original thinking, and scientific and popular writing have changed the way humans think of nature, and our place in it. Currently he is a research professor and museum curator at Harvard University. He has received many of the world's leading prizes for his research in science, his environmental activism, and his writing.

Learn More about E. O. Wilson

May Highlights:

Massachusetts Science Research News

Protein Power

Inspired by the efficiency with which plants convert sunlight into sugar, researchers have fabricated a solar cell that uses photosynthetic proteins to convert light into electricity. Although the prototype device can't yet rival commercial solar cells made of silicon, it demonstrates a new strategy for making longer-lasting photovoltaic cells.

Massachusetts Science Education News

Massachusetts State Science & Engineering Fair kicks off May 1st

Over 350 outstanding science students are putting final touches on their research projects and preparing to compete for more than $425,000 in cash, prizes and scholarships at the 59th annual Massachusetts State Science & Engineering Fair (MSSEF).

The event celebrates year-long school programs that focus on hands-on learning, innovation and achievement in science, engineering and technology. Judging of 300 individual and team projects takes place May 2, and the Fair is open to the public on Saturday May 3, from 12:00 to 3:00 pm. Cash awards, prizes, and scholarships are presented at a ceremony in Kresge Auditorium on Saturday, May 3rd at 3:30 pm, emceed for the second consecutive year by WBZ-TV meteorologist Mish Michaels.

Just for Kids News

A Note from Sara

One trend I have been noticing lately is the call for everyone to "go green". Actually, it's pretty hard to ignore. Companies keep coming out with products that are more energy efficient, celebrities are urging their fans to go green, and more and more within the media in general is this voice crying out in unison, imploring me to go green.

Meet Aspiring Scientists!

Meet the next generation of scientists and find out more about how they will make an impact on our scientific community. This week, meet Chris Mitchell, a herpetologist who is just graduating from high school.

What the MAS is doing for YOU!

Our 2008 priorities include:

Create the Massachusetts Science Podcasts, which will highlight science research and education efforts and achievements across the state. Target launch date: June 2008.
Create the Massachusetts Science Intern Program, which will provide summer intern training programs for high school students at a number of Massachusetts-based biotechnology companies. Target launch date: January 2009.
Hold the first annual MAS Conference, which will highlight science research and education achievements in Massachusetts. Target launch date: May 2009.
Publish the first "Massachusetts Scientists", a biannual publication to promote science research and education in the state. Target launch date: September 2008.