The focus of ABRF is service to its members through diverse activities. Most prominent of the activities is the work of the Research Groups through their distribution of unknown samples, analysis of analytical results and distribution of the results for comparison and self-evaluation. Committees of ABRF provide functions not related to laboratory work but promote the efficient functioning and well being of the organization and its service to membership and the scientific community.

Among the strengths of the organization is the motivation of members and the strong willingness to volunteer resources to help advance the well being and efficient operation of core facilities and interested laboratories. Most ABRF members are in their career because of their desire to help the scientific, research and educational enterprises. While we can list the location and employer of current members, the organization has little information about the membership. There is even less detail about the expectations and desires that members have of ABRF. Why do members renew or not? Why do individuals attending the ABRF meeting join or not? Why do invited participants in ABRF activities join or not? What can ABRF do to meet the expectations of members? In a larger vein, what should ABRF evolve into as it matures? Should more and diverse technologies be covered or should breadth be limited?

Charge:
Track membership renewals and non-renewals and understand the demographics of the members. Help understand what ABRF is, where it should go, and what services should be provided to members. Advise the Executive Board on these membership issues.

Membership:
Membership on the Membership Committee will include representatives of academic and research institute laboratories, industrial laboratories as well as a cross section from various disciplines such as protein and nucleic acids that represent major interests of ABRF members. The committee shall recommend members to the Executive Board and serve at the pleasure of the Executive Board.