The Society for Neuroscience (SfN) is a professional society, headquartered in Washington, DC, for basic scientists and physicians around the world whose research is focused on the study of the brain and nervous system. It is especially well known for its annual meeting, consistently one of the largest scientific conferences in the world. History SfN was founded in 1969 by Ralph W. Gerard and, at nearly 37,000 members, has grown to be the largest neuroscience society in the world. The stated mission of the society is to: Advance the understanding of the brain and the nervous system. Provide professional development activities, information, and educational resources. Promote public information and general education about science and neuroscience. Inform legislators and other policy makers about the implications of research for public policy, societal benefit, and continued scientific progress. Annual meeting The Society holds an annual meeting that is attended by scientists and physicians from all around the world. The first annual meeting of the society was held in Washington, DC in 1971, and it was attended by 1,396 scientists. Subsequent meetings have been held annually in a variety of cities throughout the US, with the exception of the 1988 meeting, which was held in Canada.The 2018 meeting was held in San Diego, CA, and the 2019 meeting was held in Chicago, IL. Publishing The Journal of Neuroscience, was launched in 1981 and has consistently been a multidisciplinary journal publishing papers on a broad range of topics of general interest to those working on the nervous-system. In addition, SfN publications offer breadth and depth into the rapidly developing field of neuroscience. eNeuro, was launched in 2014, SfN's open-access journal publishes high quality papers in all areas of neuroscience that increase the understanding of the nervous-system, including replication studies and negative results. SfN's digital member magazine, Neuroscience Quarterly covers SfN news, programs, science, and events, and other neuroscience-related issues. Enhanced content includes videos, slideshows, and interactive elements. Nexus is a digital newsletter, containing key dates and details for annual meeting attendees, the latest research for JNeurosci and eNeuro, and public education and advocacy initiatives. Presidents The following people have been President of the Society: Awards SfN offers the following awards, fellowships, and honors: Award for Education in Neuroscience Bernice Grafstein Award for Outstanding Accomplishments in Mentoring Donald B. Lindsley Prize in Behavioral Neuroscience FENS Forum Travel Awards FENS Member Travel Awards to SfN Annual Meeting