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Student Affiliate

If you are a full time undergraduate student studying the biosciences, then become a student affiliate member.

Join today and:

  • Strengthen your CV — membership demonstrates to employers that you are committed to being a professional bioscientist and have fitting qualifications and/or experience.
  • Get access to a network of experienced biologists — members include your lecturers as well as your future colleagues and employers. 
  • Receive a subscription to our leading magazine, The Biologist. Biology is brought to life through an impressive range of review articles, whilst topical pieces discuss science policy, new developments or controversial issues. 

The RSB is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in the life sciences, and supports diversity throughout the sector; at school and higher education, in the workplace and training. If you have completed your undergraduate degree and are currently undertaking a masters or PhD, please visit our associate member page for the appropriate grade.

Annual fee
Students £20
Apprentices* £20

*Apprentices with more than 3 years' experience working in a full-time biology related position are eligible for our discounted associate grade.

BioSocs

Student biology societies are an excellent way to encourage students and other members of your department to socialise by arranging a range of fun and stimulating lectures and events. If you already have a student biology society you can register with the Royal Society of Biology for free for a number of benefits that will help to make it a success.

See who's already in our network.

  • Enhance your biological knowledge outside your studies
  • Committee members will get experience that looks great on their CVs
  • Organise interesting and fun events
  • Great for socialising
  • Register your BioSoc with us for free for a number of benefits

If you would like to start a student biology society at your university or college then we can offer you some guidance.

  • Get a group of students interested
  • Think of a name
  • Form a committee – they should be committed and enthusiastic
  • Get support from your department – they will be able to offer ideas and support about events, sponsorship, and help promote events
  • Get support from your Students' Union (SU) – they can officially recognise your society and offer support. Every SU operates differently so get in touch with them to find the level of support they offer student societies.
  • Recruit members

Registering is free and easy — just fill out the BioSoc registration form.

You will need contact details for your president and one other committee member, and proof (e.g. confirmation email) that your society is supported by your Students' Union or department.

Once registered, you will receive a handbook with tips on running your BioSoc such as structure and governance advice, and guidance for running events. The handbook also provides details of how to take advantage of the following benefits:

  • Free student membership to the Royal Society of Biology for your president
  • Reduced membership rates for your members 
  • News about the Society and relevant opportunities
  • Networking — we will help you interact with our members and other student societies via a range of communication channels
  • Help and advice on running your society
If you have any questions about BioSoc registration, please contact membership@rsb.org.uk

We love to hear about the activities carried out by BioSocs. Let us know what you have planned, and we may be able to support you with free resources, helpful tips, and advice. We may also be able to attend one of your events to talk about the RSB, membership, and other opportunities.

Get in touch by emailing membership@rsb.org.uk or via social media on LinkedInFacebook, Bluesky, or Instagram.

Any questions about joining?

If you are ready to join, you can start your application now via our membership portal, myRSB. You will need to create an account if you have not done so before.

If you have any questions you can email our membership team or call +44 (0)20 3925 3441.

Not quite old enough to join as an associate or student affiliate? School or college students aged 14 to 19 can apply to become BioNet members of the RSB.

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