The Australian Atherosclerosis Society (AAS), formed in 1974 and incorporated in 1986, promotes, at a national level, the advancement of science, research and teaching in the field of atherosclerosis. The AAS endeavours to achieve these objectives by promoting the exchange of existing knowledge; encouraging new research ventures and interdisciplinary approaches; and fostering the dissemination of knowledge by organising national and international scientific meetings. Membership is open to researchers in the field of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Membership to the AAS automatically entitles membership of the International Atherosclerosis Society.

President's Report
One of the most striking aspects of the society’s activity in the last few months has been the provision of support for members who are in the early phases of their scientific careers. Dr Jeff Cohn ably assisted by Prof Wendy Jessup, Dr Len Kritharides and I, co-ordinated a 1-day seminar that encompassed both the scientific and professional aspects of atherosclerosis research. The pilot program in Sydney has provided a template that may be used for similar activities at the Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM). We have also confirmed the availability of travel support for young scientists who wish to attend this year’s meeting. Furthermore, we have increased the number of applicants who have been receiving AAS Trust support to facilitate presentations at overseas meetings by younger members. It has also been clear during planning meetings for the ASM that special care is taken to arrange the program in a way that will promote the professional development of younger members.

I think it is very important for the society to consolidate upon this investment in the talents of our young scientists. Mobility and adaptability are part of the very nature of scientific research and it is impractical for us to believe that everyone who undertakes early postgraduate research in atherosclerosis will remain in the field. Nevertheless, I think both the society and its members would benefit tremendously if we were better able to maintain contact with people who were members of the society during this important phase of their careers.

The current arrangements for membership are designed to maximise the retention of members. Reminders are sent to non-financial previous members as long as we have their contact details. We would like to improve on this situation in two ways. Firstly, we are considering a formalisation of this process, which would involve sending the AAS e-news to all members and ex-members provided that they keep us informed of their current email address. This initiative will only boost our base if we re-establish contact with as many ex-members as possible, and we certainly encourage your assistance in this regard. Secondly, we want to continue to differentiate the advantages of paid membership, so we would be grateful for suggestions concerning additional services that you would like the society to provide without putting pressure on the annual subscription.

There are several other exciting developments at both the national and international level that I look forward to discussing in the next issue.


David Sullivan