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Phi Sigma - National Biology Honor Society

The Phi Sigma Society is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.  The Phi Sigma honor society was founded on March 17, 1915, at Ohio State University to honor excellence in biological research.  Phi Sigma is reserved for students who have demonstrated interest in research, and are at the top of their class in their respective universities.

The Greek letters, Phi and Sigma, signify "fellows in science". The coat of arms contains the motto of the organization in Greek, which when translated means, "Truth shall spring from the earth."

The current officers of Emory's Pi Chapter include:

  • Bipul Mainali, President
  • Stefano Martin, Vice President
  • Zoe Gunthert, Secretary
  • Stephanie Jiang, Treasurer

Phi Sigma is the highest academic honor in the field of Biology. Phi Sigma is a cross-section of undergraduate and graduate students and professional people with unique interests and experience in biology. As such, they can offer a wealth of perspectives that can assist you in your career development. We urge you to take advantage of this opportunity for social, educational, and professional advancement! 

The Phi Sigma Society is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The Phi Sigma Biological Sciences Honor Society was founded at Ohio State University, March 17, 1915.  The Phi Sigma Society became a member society of the Association of College Honor Societies in 1950.  Emory's Pi Chapter was founded in 1925.

Membership Requirements:

Students who are enrolled in an accredited 4-year college or university, who have shown research interest, and who have received an equivalent of at least two years of college credit of which at least one-fourth is in the biological sciences, with a scholarship rating in the upper thirty-five percent of their class.

This minimum ACHS requirement is modified by chapter bylaws; at least a B average is expected together with other qualifications suitable to the local chapters, particularly for graduate students. There is a one-time $50 fee to join Phi Sigma.

Office Address and Contacts

Emory University - Department of Biology
O. Wayne Rollins Research Center
1510 Clifton Road NE
Atlanta, GA 30322

Chapter Leadership

President: Bipul Mainali

Vice President: Stefano MartinSecretary: Zoe GunthertTreasurer: Stephanie Jiang
Chapter AdvisorMembership Coordinator

Alexander Escobar
Senior Lecturer
alexander.escobar@emory.edu
Office Phone: 404-727-7525 
Office Room: Rollins 1103

Barbara Shannon
Degree Program Coordinator
barbara.shannon@emory.edu
Office Phone: 404-727-6294
Office Room: Rollins 2006A