10 Year Anniversary
October 2019 to September 2020 was a milestone year for the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) as we marked our 10th anniversary and 40 years of being granted a Royal Charter.
The Society of Biology formed in 2009 from the merger of the Biosciences Federation (2002-2009) and the Institute of Biology (1950-2009) which was granted a Royal Charter in 1979.
We were granted the Royal title in May 2015 building on our mission to be the single unified voice for biology.
Year's activities
Throughout this celebratory year, we aimed to inspire, support and influence biology and biologists, and evolve as an organisation with lasting impact.
Our Biology Changing the World themed suite of new events and initiatives encompassed all areas of our work, to highlight our achievements and the accomplishments of the biosciences over the past decade.
Our activities contributed to our vision of a world that understands the true value of biology and how it can contribute to improving life for all:
Inspire
We inspire interest in the biosciences and the natural world by communicating the true value of biology and inspiring the next generation of bioscientists
Pioneers of Biology Talk Series – a series of events around the UK to honour biological pioneers chosen by our branch committees, alongside a topical talk on the bioscience discipline and networking reception
Big Biology Day Grant – a new grant offering £500 to run a Big Biology Day science outreach event in the local area. These science festivals engage the public and families with hands on activities, crafts and displays all inspired by the life sciences
Influence
Our unified voice secures positive outcomes for the bioscience community by influencing science policy, education, and the perception of the biosciences
#MembershipMay - an online campaign to celebrate biology and our diverse membership as an extension to the popular Biology Week #iamabiologist social media campaign
Policy infographics – key science and education policy responses will be released as visual infographics to encourage involvement and understanding of our important policy work thus increasing our ability to make a positive impact for biology and bioscientists
Support
We support and develop a skilled workforce of biologists throughout their careers to advance the biological sciences
Careers Q&A sessions - to support young and early career bioscientists with their career choices, highlighting the wealth of advice and guidance available through the RSB and our wider network (postponed due to COVID-19)
Registers timeline – a visual timeline of our professional registers will demonstrate the RSB's growth in this area and our support for continuing professional development
Evolve
We will continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of our membership and the biosciences, to support growth in the sector
Anniversary Gala Dinner – the pinnacle event of the year’s celebrations was at the Science Museum in London and marked 10 years since the launch of the RSB. At this celebration of the biosciences and the RSB, we presented Sir David Attenborough FRS Hon FRSB with our first Lifetime Achievement Award.
Our Impact - monthly infographics to showcase the RSB's breadth of impact and reach over the last decade in all aspects of our work