We’re delighted to announce Professor Gurdyal Besra as our new Society Vice President from July 2026. As Vice President he will act as line manager to the CEO and play a vital role within the Society to help shape our strategy and future vision. Following this appointment, our current Vice President, Professor Richard Reece will step up into the role of Society President.

Professor Besra heads a world-leading multidisciplinary team at the University of Birmingham, investigating key aspects of the microbial physiology of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis cell wall and the potential role of iNKT/CD1d therapeutics. He has significant organisational management and leadership experience and has previously been President of the Microbiology Society.

Professor Besra said:

“Throughout my career, I have been deeply committed to advancing the molecular biosciences, nurturing the next generation of researchers, broadening participation across the discipline, and championing the societal value of biochemistry. I believe strongly in the mission of the Biochemical Society: to support the molecular bioscience community, promote research excellence, advocate for the discipline, and foster an inclusive research culture.”

We look forward to welcoming him to our Council of Trustees later this year.