International Society of Trace Elements in the Environment

Structure

Membership

ISTEE offers biennial membership to scientists, students, and professionals active in relevant environmental disciplines. Membership categories include Regular Members, Student Members, and Fellows an honor awarded for exceptional scientific contributions. All members may vote; Regular Members and Fellows may hold office.

Governance

The society is governed by an Executive Board representing global regions (Americas (North, Central, South America); Asia; Europe; Global Communities (i.e., the remainder of the globe)) and composed of elected officers, Members-at-Large, and conference chairs. Additional committees—such as the International Committee, Local Organizing Committee, Nominating Committee, and Auditing Committee—support conference planning, elections, financial oversight, and strategic operations.

Elections and Fellows

ISTEE conducts biennial electronic elections for Executive Board and Auditing Committee positions. Up to three Fellows are selected every two years via a formal nomination and review process.

Meetings

A general membership meeting takes place during each biennial ISTEE Conference, with additional Executive Board meetings held regularly or as required.

Finances and Compliance

ISTEE operates as a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its bylaws ensure financial transparency, regular auditing, and adherence to conflict-of-interest and non-discrimination policies.

Bylaws

The bylaws outline the fundamental rules that govern the structure, decision-making processes, and operational principles of the society. Amendments to the bylaws may be proposed by Executive Board members and require majority approval by the ISTEE Executive Board followed by a two-thirds vote of participating members.