The RSB marks a change in leadership
Date: 18 Sept 2025
The Royal Society of Biology bade farewell to Dr Mark Downs CBiol CSci FRSB, outgoing Chief Executive, and welcomed his successor Dr Doug Brown FRSB at a special evening to mark the occasion. The drinks and networking event was hosted at The Orangery & Courtyard, Cavendish Square, London on Wednesday 17 September 2025 with over 100 guests in attendance.
Speech from Ian Boyd
The evening began with a speech from the RSB’s President, Professor Sir Ian Boyd FRSB. Ian highlighted many of Mark’s achievements and successes during his 16 years in post as Chief Executive, namely overseeing the merger of the Biosciences Federation and the Institute of Biology in 2009; the significant expansion of membership and the staff team; and the launch of the bioscience accreditation programme in 2012 which now has a global reach.
It was noted that Mark spearheaded the creation of the annual Biology Week, now in its 14th year, which engages a broad audience. Mark also championed collaboration with other organisations, including the Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute of Physics; working with ministers and policymakers to increase the Society’s profile in Parliament; and acquiring the Society’s Royal title in 2015.
Ian went on to say he was incredibly grateful to Mark for all he did and for leaving the Society stronger than ever before wishing him well for his retirement and handing over a selection of gifts tailored to Mark, including an Honorary Fellowship.
Speech from Rachel Lambert-Forsyth
The next speech was given by Rachel Lambert-Forsyth FRSB, CEO of the British Pharmacological Society, who worked closely with Mark over the years, both in collaboration across organisations and previously at RSB.
Rachel noted Mark’s calm guidance, sense of humour, good listening ear, and persuasion capabilities were the keys to his success of transforming the Society and what made him so favourable to work with. She noted his ability to create an environment where new ideas flourish and to navigate complex institutional politics, before giving a few heartfelt anecdotes and wishing him well for his next chapter.
Speech from Mark Downs
Mark then took to the podium to give a reflection on his time as the RSB’s Chief Executive. From being the first in his family to go to university and being inspired to study biology by his school teacher, he said this role was a great privilege. Through his role he was able to support biology and a range of people – from young people who succeeded in the RSB’s competitions to researchers and leaders in the field – and initiatives, from accreditation to policymaking.
Mark ended by saying that the field of biology is in great shape with so much opportunity to tackle current global issues, and wished Doug good luck.
He then thanked RSB staff for all their work in addition to those in voluntary roles, including the various committee members, and his wife, Kate Baillie.
Speech from Doug Brown
The final speech was given by Doug, who brings a wealth of experience with him to this new role. He started by saying that biology has always been a big part of his life, since he was 12, when he was inspired by seeing what scientists around the world could achieve. He said that it’s an honour for him to be taking on the role of Chief Executive of the RSB and that he will build on Mark’s legacy of the last 16 years in this new era for the RSB. Doug ended by saying that there is a lot to be done across the biosciences as we face unprecedented challenges in the UK and globally, and that he’s very excited to take on this role and to work with everyone in the RSB and at associate organisations.
The rest of the evening provided an opportunity for networking and celebrating a significant moment for the Royal Society of Biology.
