Supporting Research and Education on Smell and Taste

The Association for Chemoreception Sciences (AChemS) is a non-profit organization that seeks to advance scientific research and education in the “chemical senses” (smell, taste, and related sensations).

Imagine not being able to taste your favorite food. Picture yourself sitting down to a meal; no matter how much you look forward to it, every bite is bland and flavorless. Now, imagine not being able to smell the aroma of a fresh cup of coffee in the morning or the comforting scent of a loved one’s perfume. For many people, this isn’t just a thought experiment—it’s their daily reality.

Smell, taste and related sensations are integral to our daily lives.

Taste and smell research is vital to our understanding of the senses and human health. Smell, taste and related sensations support healthy eating, promote social bonding and provide protection from disease and environmental hazards. While often neglected and certainly understudied, smell and taste loss affect a significant portion of the population, negatively impacting quality of life and health outcomes. Dysfunction of the chemical senses predicts mortality and is an early indicator of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular, nutritional and mental health problems.

A central goal of AChemS is to educate, support and recognize the next generation of scientists studying the chemical senses.

To this end, AChemS is raising funds in support of initiatives benefiting undergraduate and graduate students as well as postdoctoral trainees. Funds will be used for educational activities (including attendance to conferences), research excellence awards, professional development and for supporting a program to mentor exceptional trainees.

Thank you for your support!