The California Association of Professional Scientists (CAPS) represents nearly 3,000 state-employed scientists working in over 30 state departments in 230 scientific classifications. CAPS members protect the public from life-threatening diseases, safeguard our wildlife and abundant natural resources and protect our air and water for toxic waste and pollution. CAPS is dedicated to ensuring that California’s state scientists receive fair pay and benefits for their important work.
CAPS was created in 1984 by a small group of state scientists who believed their employment and professional interests would be best served by an organization devoted specifically to the needs of state scientists. The membership is unified by three fundamental principles:
Professionalism. CAPS is committed to helping individual scientists meet and exceed their scientific career goals -- professionals with essential roles in the community of science to protect and preserve public health, the environment and California’s natural resources.
Scientific Freedom. CAPS members are dedicated to scientific freedom and the pursuit of professional course of action without regard to political influence.
Responsible Advocacy. CAPS takes a firm but responsible approach to representing its membership in legislative matters, contract negotiations and individual personnel actions.
CAPS also seeks to promote science and enhance the professional interest of scientists in California. Each spring, CAPS sponsors “State Scientist Day,” bringing a wide variety of scientific exhibits and experiments to the State Capitol for the benefit of school children and other visitors. Throughout the years, CAPS awards prizes to promising young scientists at regional science fairs, and then selects California’s “Outstanding Young Scientist” from regional winners. CAPS also provides grants to give state scientists the opportunity to expand their knowledge by attending conferences and symposiums throughout the United States when state funds are not available.
