The Marine Biological Association

The Marine Biological Association (MBA) is one of the world’s longest-running societies dedicated to promoting research into our oceans and the life they support. Since 1884 we have been providing a unified, clear, independent voice on behalf of the marine biological community and currently have a growing membership in over 40 countries. Below you can see a timeline of our history.The Association, MBA President and Council are responsible to the Privy Council for ensuring that business is conducted in accordance with the object and powers as expressed in the Royal Charter. Its governance structure and practices are described in the bylaws supported by a set of regulations. We are also registered as a charity and regulated by the Charity Commission. The MBA is governed by its members through a distinguished Council who also function as the Board of Trustees. The Board is chaired by the MBA President and supported by three trustee sub-committees; Membership and Engagement, Research, and Finance, Audit and Risk.