Our new issue of the Society owned community magazine, The Biochemist, is now available to read! 

An exciting issue focusing on Vaccines and Immunology, which has become more evident in research following the COVID-19 pandemic as a requirement to develop a critical line of defence against imminent and emerging threats. This issue explores topics of vaccine hesitancy patient-friendly immunisation, precision immunology to fight neurodegenerative disease.

Our Science Editor, Dr Kakoli Bose (ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, India), shares her thoughts on this issue in her introductory editorial:

“Vaccines remain one of the most powerful and paradigm-shifting inventions of the modern scientific era. From the complete decimation of smallpox to the improved understanding and control of diseases such as measles, polio, and influenza, vaccination has radically redefined global public health. Beyond protecting individuals, vaccines affirm community pliancy through herd immunity, safeguarding the vulnerable groups and those to whom vaccination does not reach due to multiple socio-economic reasons.

Despite their worldwide triumph, vaccines face a complex range of challenges. Vaccine hesitancy, fuelled by misinformation and doubt, continues to threaten public health benefits. Scientific challenges, such as rapidly mutating pathogens, cold-chain requirements, and the need for expandable manufacturing, necessitate ongoing innovation. Addressing these concerns requires not only scientific breakthroughs but also compassionate engagement at the societal, cultural, and political dimensions.

Together, the contributions in this issue highlight that while vaccines are rooted in biomedical research, their impact and the hurdles they cross extend far beyond the experimental bench.”

Read more about what Dr Kakoli has to say in her editorial.

This issue features a student-focused account of an industrial placement, offering valuable insight for student members considering similar opportunities. Biosciences graduate, Zayna Nabeeha Alam, reflects on how industry experience supports early-career development, what an industrial placement involves, and practical advice on securing one, alongside key takeaways from navigating initial placement fears.

We also have an opinion piece from Dr Alessandro Siani (University of Portsmouth) who examines how financial strain and staffing shortages in UK higher education are affecting biosciences teaching and students’ sense of belonging. Focusing on laboratory‑intensive disciplines, the article outlines the impact on student experience, practical skills development, research opportunities and wellbeing.

The start of 2026 marks an exciting period for the Biochemical Society and Portland Press, with the launch of a new strategy built around three core missions aimed at supporting members at every stage of their careers while championing molecular biosciences. Read more about our new strategy and other exciting updates, including our Subscribe to Open decision in this issue. 

Access the full issue.