Affiliate vs. Associate

Affiliate Membership

Affiliate membership within Sigma Xi applies to those who have some level of previous research experience either through our Research Immerse program or a combination of past experiences in labs / internships. As an affiliate, you can partake in all chapter meetings and activities throughout the year (aside from induction)! We also strongly recommend taking advantage of our coffee chat program as an affiliate member to connect with older members who have similar interests as you. Both you and your chosen coffee chat mentor will get a free drink (expenses can be reimbursed from Sigma Xi) while you learn more about each other's research interests and goals!

Associate Membership

Associate membership within Sigma Xi can be earned by undergraduates who have conducted independent research, and usually applies to those with over 2 years of research experience. If you are an affiliate who wants to make the jump to associate status, taking on chapter leadership is a great way to stand out! This can include mentoring for Research Immerse, developing Think Like A Scientist lesson plans, or actively participating in executive board events throughout the semester. Developing independence as a researcher is a crucial requirement for associate status. During associate interviews, we look for evidence of your ability to design, execute, and analyze experiments independently at a high level, as well as your professionalism and potential to serve as a leader in Sigma Xi. 

If you are selected, you will be formally inducted as an associate member of Sigma Xi in the fall induction ceremony. Please note that applications for associate membership are only open once per year (during the spring semester). There is a one-time $20 initiation fee for new associates in addition to the local and national dues required of each member, which is important to keep in mind. Associate members are expected to serve as mentors to younger Sigma Xi members through our various yearly programs and coffee chats. Associate members can also reach out as mentees for their own coffee chats - this is highly encouraged, as we are all always learning!