The Southern California Branch of the American Society for Microbiology (SCASM) is one of the largest branches in ASM. Throughout the year, we offer our members many opportunities to keep up with the latest developments and information in the field of microbiology.
SCASM offers several programs each year with speakers presenting exciting information from their fields of expertise. In addition, our Annual Meeting is held in Southern California in the Fall, with renowned microbiologist speakers and presenters from throughout the country.
The Southern California branch of the Society of American Bacteriologists (SAB, now known as the American Society for Microbiology) was founded in 1936. Dr. T.D. Beckwith of the Department of Bacteriology at the University of California, Los Angeles, agreed to become the branch's first president. Dr. John Kessel of the University of Southern California was elected as the "second officer."
A T.D. Beckwith Honorary Award for outstanding contributions in Microbiology is presented each year at the Annual Meeting. Click here to open/print the Recommendation Application (pdf).
A distinguished group of 25 members of the national society petitioned to become a new branch, and in December of 1936, the SAB Council formally approved the branch. Since that time, the membership has grown to include over 700 members with responsibility for the territory encompassing California zip codes 90000-93599. Members of SCASM live and work throughout Southern California, from Santa Barbara to the Mexico border.
SCASM Presidents
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