Changes to the Royal Society of Biology regional branch structure

In October 2024, following a consultation with members and volunteers, the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) made the decision to reshape the way regional engagement was supported across the organisation. This change formed part of the Society’s new five year strategy, which came into effect in January 2025, and reflected the shifting needs of our community in the years following the pandemic. 

Regional branch history

For many decades prior to this transition, RSB branches and their predecessors within the Institute of Biology, were central to the Society’s regional identity. Branches developed local networks and delivered an impressive range of activities. 

Many branches operated across large geographical areas, particularly outside the UK, drawing on the dedication of volunteers and local partnerships to deliver activities on modest budgets. Their contributions remain an important and appreciated part of the Society’s history.

Changes to regional engagement

In January 2025, the RSB introduced a new grants based model enabling individual members and groups worldwide to run local in person life science events. Delivered through the Regional Events Grants, this approach offers greater flexibility and has broadened participation.

The RSB has also expanded its programme of member exclusive online events. Building on the success of webinar formats developed during the pandemic, this series ensures that members across the world can benefit from high quality RSB content regardless of location, while complementing the locally delivered, member led activities supported through the grants.

As part of this transition, all branch committee led activity concluded at the end of 2024. Although this marked the end of a longstanding regional structure, it also opened new avenues for engagement. The new model provides members with greater autonomy, supports a wider range of initiatives and allows for a more accessible and sustainable approach to public engagement within the life sciences, while creating opportunities for former branch members to remain involved through partnerships and new forms of collaboration, building on the foundations laid by many years of regional activity.

Through the grants programme and an expanded offering of member-exclusive events, the RSB continues to champion biology in ways that reflect the changing landscape of engagement and the aspirations of its global community.

If you have any questions, please get in touch at regions@rsb.org.uk