GAeF was founded in 1972 and is an international association of researchers focusing on the topics of aerosol research. GAeF primarily operates in Europe, but has a worldwide network of members from universities, research institutes, industry, and medical centers.

GAeF serves as a forum for the various disciplines in aerosol research. The overall aims of GAeF are:

• Promote science in all areas of aerosol research
• Provide information with an interdisciplinary base to their members and the public by organizing scientific conferences and supporting publications
• Maintain a forum for international cooperation and exchange for all aspects of aerosol science
•  Support scientific education and teaching in aerosol science at all levels

During the Covid pandemic, GAeF contributed to the management of the pandemic by providing expert knowledge to understand possible transmission routes of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.