The Australasian Neuroscience Society Inc is a non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of neuroscience research and education in Australia and the broader Australasian region. Founded originally in 1971 as the Australian Neuroscience Society, it began as an informal group of Australian neuroscientists with a shared interest in the study of the brain, cognition, and nervous system functions in both health and disease. The society formalized its structure with a governing council in 1980 and was incorporated in the Australian Capital Territory in 1981. In 2013, the organization adopted its current name to reflect a wider regional focus[2][3][5].

The Society comprises scientists and physicians actively engaged in neuroscience research and teaching. It serves as an important professional association representing over 800 members involved in diverse neuroscience disciplines. The Australasian Neuroscience Society plays a key role in fostering communication between the neuroscience community and government bodies, supporting the dissemination of scientific knowledge, and advocating for neuroscience research and education.

Key activities of the Society include organizing the only annual neuroscience-specific scientific meeting in Australia, which attracts national and international researchers. These meetings facilitate the exchange of scientific findings and collaboration across clinical and basic neuroscience fields. The Society also provides regular communications to its members via email and print bulletins and elects its governing council on a biennial basis[5][1].

The Australasian Neuroscience Society supports researchers and clinicians studying the brain and nervous system, aiming to enhance understanding of nervous system structure and function as well as neurological and psychiatric diseases. It benefits both the scientific community and the general public by promoting advances in neuroscience that contribute to health and well-being[1][4].

In summary, the Australasian Neuroscience Society Inc stands as a leading professional organization supporting the neuroscience community in Australasia through research, education, and advocacy since its foundation in 1971.

Abbreviation: ANS
Established: 1971 (as Australian Neuroscience Society)
Incorporation: 1981 (Australian Capital Territory)
Name change: 2013 to Australasian Neuroscience Society
Membership: Over 800 scientists and physicians
Focus: Neuroscience research, education, advocacy
Annual event: Australasian Neuroscience Society Annual Scientific Meeting

[1] https://www.ans.org.au [2] https://www.ans.org.au/about-us/ans-history [3] https://scienceandtechnologyaustralia.org.au/profile/australian-neuroscience-society/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/5dc51e16-2caf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/profile [5] https://www.eoas.info/biogs/A001893b.htm