Fellows

MBA Fellows are senior practitioners in marine biology who have contributed to the discipline at the highest level

The title of Fellow of the Marine Biological Association, FMBA, was first awarded in 2014, following granting of a Royal Charter to the Marine Biological Association. The status of Fellow of the MBA is awarded in recognition of distinguished and long-term contributions to marine biology at the highest level, in areas that include research, policy, education, outreach, or professional and public service.

Once admitted as an MBA Fellow, the recipient is entitled to use the post-nominal of FMBA. The FMBA post-nominal is an internationally acknowledged indication of a person’s esteemed standing, the supreme accolade in the discipline of marine biology and shows sustained dedication to the subject area.

Members of the MBA are part of a dynamic and dedicated community working to promote research into all aspects of life in the sea. As well as supporting our work, MBA Fellowship offers you these exclusive benefits:

Exclusive use of the post-nominal FMBA
A framed certificate of distinction
A lapel pin
Access to an Experts Database of Marine Professionals
The Marine Biologist Member's quarterly magazine
Invitation to contribute to the development of the Association
Apply for MBA Research Fellowships
Huge savings on access to the Journal of the Marine Biological Association (JMBA)
20% discount to publish in the Journal of the Marine Biological Association (JMBA)
Regular e-bulletin - updates with news, events, jobs and more
Attend AGM and steer the future of marine biology
Access to our online Community with Special Interest Groups and discussions
Ability to mentor the next generation of marine biologists

Application

Applications are made by completing the online form. You should have a record of original or significant contribution to a marine biology-related profession, sustained over a number of years. You may also have been awarded recognition for your achievements and should have a commitment to wider professional development and the aims and objectives of the Institute. It will help us to assess your eligibility if you provide a statement outlining the impact you have made in the field of marine biology, and provide evidence of leadership experience.

PLEASE NOTE; DUE TO THE APPLICATION PROCESS UNDERGOING DEVELOPMENT,.THE NEXT, REFRESHED APPLICATION ROUND WILL OPEN LATER THIS SPRING. Please email the office if you wish to be notified when the next round opens later in 2025, or if you have any queries: membership@mba.ac.uk

The two application periods each year are (usually):

~~01 November - 15 March,~~ ahead of April Council 2025 ROUND CURRENTLY POSTPONED. Thank you for your interest.
01 May - 15 September, ahead of October Council

The application will then be passed to the Applications Committee for review. Where recommendation for award of the status of Fellow is made, this is then passed to MBA Council for decision. Council Meetings are held bi-annually, at the end of April and October, and outcome of applications will therefore be announced shortly after these meetings.