Founded in 1924, the American Society of Parasitologists is an organization comprising around 700 scientists from academia, industry, and government dedicated to the study and teaching of the scientific discipline of parasitology. Its members are involved in advancing parasitology across various scientific fields including behavior, biochemistry, ecology, immunology, molecular biology, and more.
The Clark P. Read Mentor Award is designed to recognize an individual who has shown exceptional leadership in training young scientists in the field of parasitology, focusing on independent studies of parasites or host-parasite relationships. The recipient of this award should have made a significant impact on the research and/or graduate education within a department, college, or institution, notably increasing the number of students completing graduate training in parasitology. Nominees are evaluated based on their success in guiding students, scholarship in research and graduate education, effective teaching and bench training methods, impact on the field through teaching, and the creation of a supportive and creative learning environment. Nominees must be members of the American Society of Parasitologists by the time the award is given and require a minimum of four letters of support. The award includes travel and accommodation expenses up to $1000, a plaque, and the opportunity to present at the Society's Annual Meeting.