CAS Future Leaders™

Join a group of exceptional Ph.D. students and postdoctoral scholars from around the world to take the next steps in your leadership journey. Apply by Sunday, January 25, 2026.

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What is CAS Future Leaders?

The CAS Future Leaders program supports the growth of science leadership among early-career scientists. Since 2010, the program has awarded Ph.D. students and postdoctoral scholars opportunities to learn leadership skills, engage in scientific discourse, and connect with peers and innovators from around the world.

Learn

Get exclusive leadership training from industry experts and learn how CAS connects the world’s scientific knowledge.

Engage

Share your latest discoveries to advance scientific knowledge at the American Chemical Society fall meeting.

Connect

Network to make meaningful connections with peers and innovators from around the world.

2026 Program benefits

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Expense-paid trip to CAS Headquarters in Columbus, Ohio
August 17-22, 2026
Expense-paid trip to ACS Fall 2026 in Chicago, Illinois
August 23-27, 2026
Team members
24

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Frequently asked questions

Am I eligible to apply?

How do you define “postdoctoral scholar”?

What are the program dates?

What are the primary application requirements?

What should my essay include?

What should the letter of recommendation include?

Who should I select for my letter of recommendation?

How will I be contacted if I am selected?

How are CAS Future Leaders selected?

What travel-related expenses are covered by CAS?

Who should I contact with questions about the program?

CAS Future Leaders Top 100

The CAS Future Leaders Top 100 program recognizes additional outstanding applicants. This new initiative honors their accomplishments and provides exclusive benefits to support their science leadership growth.

  • Exclusive virtual leadership training and networking opportunities
  • Lifetime membership in the CAS Future Leaders Community
  • 1-year ACS membership
  • Hear from our CAS Future Leaders

    Read inspiring stories from previous participants about how the program opened new doors, enhanced their careers, and gave them an unforgettable experience.

    Read testimonialsHear from our CAS Future Leaders
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  • Past CAS Future Leaders

    Meet our exceptional alumni who shaped their personal and professional journeys through our program.

    View galleryPast CAS Future Leaders
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  • Insights from CAS Future Leaders

    Explore the unique insights and perspectives of our program alumni in this collection of publications, videos, and journal articles.

    Explore publicationsInsights from CAS Future Leaders
    View blog post
  • Contact us

    Questions about the CAS Future Leaders program? See our FAQ and Terms & Conditions or email the CAS Future Leaders team. Not a Ph.D. student or postdoctoral scholar? Download our printable flyer to share with someone you know!

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    Connect with us on X (Twitter)

    Stay connected with our CAS Future Leaders community on X (formerly Twitter), where we share updates, insights, and opportunities to engage with our program and alumni.

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    Join our global network of Ph.D. students and postdoctoral scholars in chemistry and related sciences.

    369 Alumni
    38 countries/regions