What is Sigma Xi?

Founded in 1886, Sigma Xi is an international honorary society composed of undergraduate, graduate, and professional scientists brought together by the shared goals of pursuing excellence in scientific investigation, seeking companionship and cooperation among researchers, and promoting ethics in all fields of science and engineering. The interdisciplinary nature of Sigma Xi allows members to unite with colleagues around the world to foster progressive interactions among science, technology, and society.

History of the Southern Maine Chapter

There are over 500 Sigma Xi chapters in all, located in colleges and universities, industrial research centers, and government laboratories. The Southern Maine chapter was granted a charter and was officially installed at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine on November 3, 1990 by Bates trustee and past Sigma Xi president, Patricia Morse. Owing much to the unflagging efforts and guiding vision of the chapter’s founders and its original 22 members, the Southern Maine chapter has grown in the last thirty years to include scientists in training, professional scientists employed in government, industry, and academia, and retired scientists.

How to Become a Member

Each year, the Society initiates new members across the globe. Membership in Sigma Xi is by nomination and endorsement by current Sigma Xi members. For students at Bates College, nomination is for Associate Member status and is based on current Sigma Xi members’ endorsement of the student’s aptitude for research through independent work such as a senior thesis, independent study, or summer research project.