Our mission promotes the sharing of knowledge and expertise to support the molecular bioscience field across all career stages, which could not be possible without the hard-work and determination of those that sit on our committees, boards and panels.

Every month, we introduce you to one of our volunteers to gain insight into what our committees do, the benefits to the community, and the benefits to the individuals who volunteer.

Dr Susan Campbell is a Local Ambassador Representative and also sits on our Council of Trustees whose elected members drive and set the strategy of the Biochemical Society, holding ultimate responsibility for all aspects of the Society’s activities. As Local Ambassador Representative she leads our Ambassador programme, overseeing a network of Ambassadors in the UK and internationally in promoting the Society and its activities. She also ensures the voices of our Ambassadors are heard on the Council.

We asked Susan three questions about her role as Local Ambassador Representative Trustee and what she has gained from the experience.

What inspired you to get involved with the Society and how did the experience match or exceed your expectations?

I was first inspired to get involved with the Biochemical Society because it played such a formative role in my academic and research development.  As a PhD student, I received a travel award to attend an international RNA Society meeting, which gave me the invaluable opportunity to present my work to a global audience and build early connections within the scientific community. That experience showed me how important the Society ‘s support is to early career researchers.

Since then, my involvement has grown through my academic development. Through opportunities such as training workshops, publication opportunities, and conference participation, I have continued to grow as both a scientist and an academic leader. Becoming a Local Ambassador has also allowed me to give back to the community that supported me, and to help others access the same opportunities that shaped my own career.

Can you share a specific moment/accomplishment in your role that made you feel rewarded?

One moment that always makes me feel genuinely rewarded in my role as Local Ambassador is attending graduation and presenting the Undergraduate Recognition Award. These awards recognise students who have gone above and beyond in their engagement within their Biochemistry degree, and it’s such a privilege to celebrate their achievements at such an important milestone in their lives. 

Standing there, representing the Biochemical Society, and seeing the pride on the students’ and their families’ faces is incredibly special. It’s a reminder of why the work we do for the Society matters, supporting the next generation of scientists and helping them feel seen, valued, and encouraged as they take their next steps.

What skills and experiences have you gained from being part of the Society?

Being part of the Society for such a long time has helped me develop a range of meaningful skills and experiences. As a researcher I’ve developed my collaborative network through attending workshops and conferences supported by the Society.  I’ve also strengthened my leadership skills through my Local Ambassador role through coordinating activities and encouraging engagement within the biochemical community.

From my role as a Council Trustee, I’ve also gained valuable insight into strategic development. Contributing to discussions about priorities, initiatives, and long‑term goals for the Society has given me a clearer understanding of how professional societies operate and how decisions shape the wider scientific community. 

It’s been a great opportunity to see how ideas evolve into actions that support members at all career stages.

Discover more about our Council of Trustees.