ACS Divisions Embrace Interdisciplinary Collaboration for the Future

As the American Chemical Society celebrates 150 years, its 32 divisions are leading the way in cross-pollination of ideas and fostering a more inclusive scientific community.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In an op-ed, Jarrod Cohen highlights how the American Chemical Society's 32 divisions have evolved from siloed communities to embracing interdisciplinary collaboration. Over the years, as chemistry has expanded, the divisions have grown to cover a wide range of fields, from polymer science to medicinal chemistry. Today, the divisions are intentionally designing joint programming, shared keynote sessions, and coordinated networking events to encourage dialogue beyond traditional practices. This approach has enhanced the meeting experience for attendees, enabling them to engage in interconnected programming pathways that showcase how chemistry interfaces with various fields.

Why it matters

This shift towards interdisciplinary collaboration within the ACS divisions reflects the reality that many of the most urgent scientific and professional areas, like medicine, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and materials, do not reside in a single discipline. By aligning programming with the way science is practiced today, the ACS divisions are creating a more inclusive, dynamic, and impactful scientific and professional exchange.

The details

The op-ed explains that over the past several years, division leaders and volunteers have worked across all 32 divisions and several programming committees to design integrated scientific tracks. For example, chemists working in artificial intelligence and machine learning collaborate with synthetic and medicinal chemists to accelerate drug discovery, while material scientists partner with experts in environmental chemistry to address renewable materials for a circular economy. These interdisciplinary efforts extend beyond the in-person meetings, with digital programming, year-round webinars, and collaborative projects sustaining momentum between events.

  • The op-ed was published on March 2, 2026.
  • The ACS Spring 2026 meeting will take place in Atlanta, Georgia.

The players

Jarrod Cohen

The author of the op-ed, who wears dark-rimmed glasses and a light-colored, button-down shirt and smiles at the camera.

American Chemical Society

The premier professional organization for chemists, which has served as a platform for collaboration and advancement of the field for 150 years.

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What they’re saying

“Over the years, as chemistry expanded, so, too, did the divisions, growing from five to 32 vibrant communities that now span polymer science, analytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, business management, and beyond.”

— Jarrod Cohen (Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN)

What’s next

The impact of this interdisciplinary collaboration will be on full display at the ACS Spring 2026 meeting in Atlanta, where an expansive collection of joint symposia, innovative programs, hot topics, and networking events will foster community across disciplines.

The takeaway

The ACS divisions' embrace of interdisciplinary collaboration reflects the organization's adaptability, innovation, and commitment to creating a more inclusive, dynamic, and impactful scientific community. This approach will help ensure that the ACS remains at the forefront of science for the next 150 years and beyond.