Our work would not be possible without the hard-work and determination of those who sit on our committees, boards and panels. All of which play a vital role in helping us advance our mission to promote the sharing of knowledge and expertise to support those at all career stages across the molecular biosciences.

Every month, we will be introducing 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.

This month we’re hearing from Dr Gavin McStay. Gavin is an Ordinary Member on our Grants Committee which reviews and allocates funding for 12 grant schemes, working to ensure that the portfolio continues to reflect the needs of the entire molecular bioscience community. He also sits on our EDI Advisory Panel which leads on the implementation of our wider EDI initiatives, and is the FEBS Member Society Representative, attending group meetings on the Society's behalf to ensure our activities align with the wider European scientific community and identifying opportunities for collaboration. 

We asked Gavin three questions about his voluntary roles and what he has gained from these experiences.

What inspired you to get involved with the Society and how has the experience matched or exceeded your expectations?

The Biochemical Society organised the first ever scientific meeting I attended while I was doing my PhD. When I returned from working overseas, I wanted to become part of this community again, because of the support it offered to me when I was starting my career. I wanted to be part of a society that supports scientists in many different ways.

The Society has offered me many opportunities as a member on committees and panels, where I feel my voice is heard and we make a difference to Society members. I’ve met many wonderful people I would not have met, and this has made it so worthwhile.

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

I was appointed as Member Society Representative to FEBS in the past year. This has given me the chance to interact more with the Society staff and share our activities with other biochemical societies across Europe. At the recent FEBS congress in Istanbul I was part of the presenting team bidding to host the FEBS Congress in 2028.

This was a nerve-wracking presentation, but I was elated when the FEBS council delegates voted unanimously in favour of the bid.

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

The Biochemical Society is an organisation that truly considers all its members and staff and their backgrounds and needs. The times we meet are all highly productive with people from all career stages and backgrounds in the world of biochemistry and their voices are all heard. This has translated into my workplace when I am interacting with colleagues.

Discover more about our Grants Committee.

Read more about the FEBS Congress 2028.