AAAS Meeting 2024: Science at Scale & Current Challenges

Phoenix, Arizona, is hosting the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) annual meeting this week, bringing together scientists, researchers, and policymakers from over 65 countries. The meeting, which began February 12th and concludes February 14th, is being held in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU) at the Phoenix Convention Center. The 2026 AAAS Annual Meeting’s theme, “Science @ Scale,” focuses on the integrative scaling of new knowledge, large-scale data, complex systems, and policy innovation. Arizona State University is playing a significant role, with its thought leaders presenting translational research and scalable solutions in areas including genomics, energy, water security, aging, inclusion, and science communication. ASU President Michael M. Crow delivered the AAAS Presidential Address on Thursday, February 12th, framing the theme of “Science @ Scale.” Programming includes plenaries, topical lectures, workshops, and panels. An “ASU Avenue” booth in the Expo Hall features short talks spotlighting ASU research and innovation, covering topics from conservation and climate science to artificial intelligence, and ethics. Sessions run each day, lasting 15 to 30 minutes. Sally C. Morton, Executive Vice President and Professor at ASU’s Knowledge Enterprise, presented a topical lecture on Friday, February 13th, titled “From Discovery to Impact.” A workshop, “Filling the Gap: How STEM Professionals Can Support Local Communities,” was also held Friday, led by Taylor Spicer, Darshan Karwat, Katie Sexton, and Raj Pandya. Panel discussions included a focus on a circular phosphorous economy to improve sustainability of plant-based protein, featuring Treavor Boyer. The AAAS meeting marks the first time the organization has held its annual gathering in Phoenix. Lekelia D. Jenkins presented “Saving Sea Turtles with Science and Dance” at the ASU Avenue booth on Thursday evening. The event highlights ASU’s growing role in national science research and its partnership with AAAS to explore how research can translate into real-world impact. Attendees are able to experience ASU’s Dreamscape VR mobile classroom. The full schedule of presentations at the ASU Avenue booth is available online. The meeting’s organizers emphasize the importance of collaboration between scientists, policymakers, the public, and the private sector in scaling new knowledge for impact.