Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society
About Sigma Xi
Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Society, was founded in 1886. Today it is a non-profit membership society of more than 70,000 scientists and engineers, each elected to the Society based on their research achievements or potential. Sigma Xi has more than 500 chapters at universities and colleges, governmental laboratories, and industry research centers.
Sigma Xi adds to the field of research in many ways:
- through its publication, American Scientist;
- by awarding grants to promising young researchers;
- by sponsoring forums on critical issues; and
- through its sponsorship of various programs supporting honor in “science and engineering, science education, science policy and the public understanding of science.”
The Tarleton Chapter of Sigma Xi was chartered in May, 2003. It was organized to assist the research mission of Tarleton State University by recognizing the historical and traditional relationship between teaching and research scholarship. University faculty are expected not only to convey existing knowledge but also to create new knowledge within their disciplines. Creating new knowledge with the assistance of undergraduate and graduate students especially merges the University’s teaching and research missions with student learning outcomes.
Tarleton Sigma Xi activities typically include monthly meetings that often include local and regional speakers and discussions on how to facilitate research activities at Tarleton, hosting symposiums with world-renowned scientists as guest speakers, and hosting the annual Tarleton Student Research Symposium.