The objective of WHO is the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health. Health, as defined in the WHO Constitution, is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. The American Society for Microbiology is the oldest and largest single life science membership organization in the world, with currently over 40,000 members located throughout the world. ASM represents 24 disciplines of microbiological specialization plus a division for microbiology educators. The remainder are located in more than 60 countries throughout the world.
Most members teach and conduct research at colleges and universities.
Others conduct research in various government laboratories, nonprofit research institutions and industry. The Society publishes the Journal of Biological Chemistry . Also included are reports on topics of international interest and notices of events of interest to the public health community. Articles report on developments in fast-moving areas, making the journal invaluable reading for busy researchers. It is concerned particularly with fundamental studies.