Become a fellow
As the oldest Learned Society for ecologists in the world, our prestigious Fellowships (FBES) are prized as a mark of professional excellence in the field of ecology.
Celebrating the extraordinary
A BES Fellowship recognises the contribution of those ecologists within our international community who have achieved distinction in research, teaching, or in the application of ecology.
Becoming a Fellow is an opportunity to be recognised by our community for your exceptional contribution to the field of ecology. Please read our application criteria below.
*** Please note that applications will open in 2025 ***
What do you class as an exceptional contribution?
This is personal and will vary based on your experience, but will probably include:
- Leadership
- Impact on the field
- Teaching or mentorship
- Public engagement
- Advancement of research practices
- Contribution to conservation
- Contribution to the profession
What fields of work is the Fellowship open to?
BES Fellows can demonstrate a distinctive and notable contribution to the advancement of the ecological sciences. This can be from a variety of roles throughout their career. Some examples of these fields might include:
- Research and publishing
- Education and teaching
- Practical ecology
- Policy, advocacy and outreach
- Service to the Society
- Interdisciplinary and innovation
- EDI in ecology (track record of fostering, diversity and inclusion in your work/profession)
What is the application process?
To apply for BES Fellowship, applicants need to provide:
- An application statement (750 words)
- A CV (2 pages) Applicants can include an optional publication list (200 words) of up to five publications, with an explanation as to why they demonstrate impact.
Fellowship applicants are not required to be nominated but it may further support your application to provide the details of two referees. Referees will be contacted following your submission, please may them aware that we may contact them.
Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the Fellowship Committee who meet twice a year.
If the application is successful, you will be elected at the bi-annual election. These are held in June and December. You will then receive a letter from our President, be entitled to use the post-nominals FBES, and also receive the rest of the our Standard Membership benefits.
Should your application unfortunately be unsuccessful, you are still welcome to join our global community as a BES member.
*** Please note that applications will open in 2025 ***
How much does BES Fellowship cost?
- Standard: £115
- Concessionary: £52 (for those countries listed as Lower-Middle Income)
If you have any questions, please contact us.
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