The RSB: advancing the science of life
About Us
The RSB brings together thousands of individual members and almost 100 organisations.
We act as a single unified voice for biology: advising Government and influencing policy; advancing education and professional development; supporting our members; and engaging and encouraging public interest in the life science.
Our vision is of a world that values biology’s contribution to understanding and improving life for all.
Our individual members include practising scientists, students at all levels, professionals in academia, industry and education, and anyone with an interest in biology. Our organisational members include learned societies, professional bodies, and other scientific and educational organisations.
Our work is developed and delivered thanks to our expert- and volunteer-led committees and advisory groups. We also partner with organisations beyond the life sciences to support pan-science initiatives.
We use the terms biology, biosciences, life sciences, and biological sciences interchangeably to encompass all areas of the science of life — representing every specialism from molecular, cellular, and whole organism science to the study of ecosystems and habitats. Realising the aim of 'biosciences for all' through greater inclusion, access, and diversity is central to our business plan.
The Royal Society of Biology is a registered charity (No. 277981) and is incorporated by Royal Charter.
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2009
The Society of Biology is formed from a merger of the Institute of Biology and the Bioscience Federation, with the aim of forming a single, unified voice for biology.
Bioscience is made up of many different areas and sub-disciplines, many of which have their own specialist societies and professional bodies. Unlike chemistry, physics, or engineering, for many years there was no single organisation representing the whole biology community.
Our values centre on integrity, inclusivity, collaboration, and a passion for all of life.
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2010
The Society begins to develop a programme to accredit bioscience degrees. The programme now includes Accreditation, Advanced Accreditation, International Accreditation, Master's Accreditation, Foundation Degree Accreditation and Doctoral Training Accreditation, accrediting over 1,000 higher education courses worldwide.
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2012
The RSB launches the first Biology Week, an international celebration of all things bioscience, now in its 11th year.
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2015
The Society is granted a Royal Title to build on our mission to be the single unified voice for biology, and becomes the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
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2018
The RSB hits a record 18,000 individual members and almost 90 member organisations.
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2019
The RSB celebrates 10 years of work supporting biologists and advancing bioscience with a year of special activities.
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2025
The Society publishes its latest strategy and five-year business plan, with a focus on supporting and empowering members, increasing professionalism across the discipline, and strengthening its national voice.
Learn about how RSB is governed