American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is a professional and educational organization dedicated to the advancement of human genetics in science, health, and society. Founded in 1948 as the American Society for Human Genetics, ASHG is one of the world’s largest organizations for research scientists and health professionals focused on genetics. The society has more than 8,000 members from over 35 countries around the globe who represent an array of disciplines including medical genetics, population genetics, genomics, gene therapy and other areas related to human genome research.
The mission of ASHG is to advance human genetics in science, health care and society through excellence in research education advocacy. To fulfill this mission ASHG hosts regular meetings that bring together researchers from all fields related to human genetic sciences; encourages publication by its members through awards such as the William Allan Award; sponsors initiatives like Genome Connect which provides a platform for public engagement with genomic data; works closely with policy makers at national level regarding issues related to genetic testing & privacy rights; promotes ethical principles concerning responsible use & interpretation of genetic information; publishes peer-reviewed scientific journal GENETICS (the official journal); supports diversity among its membership by providing training grants & fellowships for students from underrepresented backgrounds etc.
Moreover ASHG also funds key projects such as 1000 Genomes Project which aims to provide comprehensive catalogues of genetic variation across many populations worldwide or HapMap project that explores patterns of variation found within different human populations thus helping us better understand how genes contribute towards disease risk predisposition etc.. Through these activities it helps bridge gaps between fundamental discoveries made within laboratory walls & their translation into real clinical applications thereby improving patient outcomes worldwide.
In conclusion American Society Of Human Genetics continues to be an important international voice promoting advances in biological sciences while simultaneously advocating sound policies aimed at protecting individuals’ right over their own genomes ensuring safe practices are followed during investigations involving humans or providing guidance on complex ethical matters related with novel technologies emerging out due application genomic knowledge – thus making sure that new possibilities offered by modern day biomedicine are used responsibly so they can benefit our species now & generations yet unborn!