Biophysical Society Bulletin | May 2022

Communities

When not volunteering for BPS, what do you work on? I am fortunate to have a talented research group that works in two main areas: how intrinsically disordered regions regu- late transcription factor function and protein-based materials. My lab started a company, Bondwell Technologies, in 2017 to use our materials to solve important problems in biopro- cessing. Through this company, I also get to continue working with several lab alumni. I also enjoy spending time with my husband, Joe, and our energetic beagle Charlie.

Sarah Bondos Committee for Professional Opportunities for Women (CPOW)

Sarah Bondos

Is this your first volunteer position for BPS? If not, what other positions have you held? I have been a member of the Committee for Professional Opportunities for Women since 2016, but it is not my first volunteer position with the Society. I have co-organized three workshops and two “PI-to-PI” mixers, and have acted as a poster judge. I have also been active with the Intrinsically Disordered Proteins Subgroup. Why do you volunteer? Through its Annual Meeting, networking events, its journals, and outreach efforts, the Biophysical Society helps young people mature into productive scientists. Volunteering is a way to give back to this community that supported and encouraged me. Volunteers also gain insight into how a large organization like BPS is organized and runs. Most importantly, volunteering is a great way to meet interesting scientists both within and outside your field. What has been a highlight from your volunteer experience? While the groups that I volunteered with have all made many important contributions, the best part of volunteering is easily meeting the other volunteers. Scientists are interesting peo- ple and volunteers are dedicated people that are knowledge- able and passionate about a particular area. It is an honor and a pleasure to work with these colleagues and friends! Do you have advice for others who might be thinking about volunteering? It is often not obvious how to volunteer for a particular committee or subgroup. I recommend just showing up to the meeting a bit early, introducing yourself to the people there and telling them that you would like to help! All groups are always looking for new people and fresh ideas, and you will be welcomed.

Start a BPS Student Chapter at Your Institution The 2022 Spring Call for Student

Chapters is currently open! Participation in the Student Chapter Program allows students to sharpen their leadership skills and be part of a worldwide net- work that helps to promote the field of biophysics within their local communities. Chapters may

be formed within a single institution, or regional Chapters may be developed among multiple, neighboring institutions anywhere in the world. Approved Chapters will receive up to $200 in matching reimbursable expenses to assist with getting started and will have access to special opportunities for Chapter officers and members at Biophysical Society meetings. All Student Chapters must have a sponsor who is a member of the Society. If you are a mentor to biophysics students with leadership potential, please share this opportunity and encourage their participation. Chapter sponsors are responsi- ble for providing professional guidance, practical advice, and needed assistance to students through face-to-face meet- ings, e-mail, online video conferencing, or phone. For more information, a complete list of instructions on form- ing a BPS Student Chapter, and a list of existing Chapters, visit www.biophysics.org/Student-Chapters. Applications will be accepted through May 13, 2022. Ques- tions can be directed to Margaret Mainguy at mmainguy@ biophysics.org. Applicants will be notified by August regarding the status of their application.

May 2022

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