Volunteer with ESA
As an ESA member, you have numerous opportunities to actively engage with the Society, contribute to the advancement of insect science, and enhance your professional development. Whether you're a new or long-standing member, there are meaningful ways to volunteer that match your interests, availability, and career stage.
Your involvement strengthens ESA and the field of entomology. Every contribution, small or large, has a positive impact on your scientific community.
Why Get Involved?
Community Impact
Contribute directly to the success of ESA and the entomological community while supporting scientific advancement.
Skill Development
Learn skills in areas like peer review, science communication, event planning, and organizational leadership.
Networking
Connect with colleagues across career stages, specializations, and geographic regions.
Professional Growth
Build leadership skills, expand your network, and gain valuable experience that advances your career in entomology.
Publications
- Peer Review: Serve as a reviewer for ESA's scientific journals
- Publish with Purpose: Submit your next research article to an ESA journal or special collection.
- Editorial Boards: Contribute to journal editorial processes
- Publications Council: Support the health and success of programs
- Share Your Story: Pitch an idea for a guest article in American Entomologist or Entomology Today
- Serve on a Committee: Suggested Committees include Common Names of Insects
Annual Meeting
- Program Planning: Help plan and execute meetings and symposia with the Annual Meeting Program Committee
- Moderate or Judge Competitions: Judge research presentations and poster sessions for student competitions
- Student & ECP Volunteer Program: Participate and receive registration-fee reimbursements
- Serve on a Committee: Suggested Committees include Annual Meeting Program or Entomology Games
Governance & Leadership
- Run for Election to the Governing Board: Oversee the business affairs of the Society as an elected officer or a representative from a Branch or Section
- Serve on a Committee: Suggested Committees include Audit, Finance, DEI, or Ethics and Rules
Professional Development
- Mentoring: Guide the next generation of entomologists through EntoMentos
- Present at a Meeting: Share your expertise through organizing a symposium or workshop or presenting your research or poster
- Organize a Webinar/Podcast: Submit a proposal for an ESA webinar (which then becomes available as an episode of “Stridulation Station”)
- Serve on a Committee: Suggested Committees include Leadership Development, Early Career Professionals, or Awards
Science Policy
- Sign Up for Action Alerts: Make your voice heard and support insect science when threats arise
- Become a Go-To Advocate: Engage directly with lawmakers on the Hill with ESA’s Science Policy Fellows Program
- Serve on a Committee: Suggested Committees include Science Policy
Education
- Join the Formal & Informal Teaching Section: Support K-12, collegiate, and informational educational activities
- Serve on the Certification Board: Assist with professional certification processes
- Support the Chrysalis Fund: Donate, encourage teachers to apply, or join the Education and Outreach Committee to help review grant applications
- Serve on a Committee: Suggested Committees include Education and Outreach, Student Affairs, Annual Meeting Program, Entomology Games, or Certification Board
Local Opportunities
- Join a Branch: Geographical groups with opportunities to engage locally and explore topics of interest to that region
- Branch Meetings: Support local and regional events
- Branch Officers: Take an elected leadership role in your geographic region
- Serve on a Branch Committee: Inquire with your local Branch about committee volunteer opportunities
Sections by Professional Discipline
- Join a Section: Subject matter-oriented groups offer more opportunities
- Section Officers: Run for elected leadership positions within your specialized discipline
- Serve on a Committee: Inquire with your Section about committee volunteer opportunities
How to Get Started
- Update Your Profile: Log in to your ESA member profile and select your Volunteer Areas of Interest
- Browse Opportunities: Review current openings that match your interests and availability
- Connect: Reach out to committee chairs or program coordinators for specific opportunities
- Start Small: Begin with shorter-term commitments to find what works best for you
Questions About Getting Involved? Contact ESA Membership for personalized guidance on volunteer opportunities that align with your interests and career goals.
