The Royal Society of Edinburgh was established in 1783 for “the advancement of learning and useful knowledge”. Born out of the Scottish Enlightenment, it remains true to two underpinning principles of the time, which still characterise a Scottish approach to learning:
A broad understanding and appreciation of different forms of knowledge with a fellowship that encompasses the breadth of academia along with business, the professions and public service
The application of that knowledge for the betterment of society or ‘knowledge made useful’
We have around 1,800 Fellows. The Fellowship is split into four broad sectors, covering the full range of physical and life sciences, arts, humanities, social sciences, education, professions, industry, business and public life. This range of expertise within the Fellowship means that we are well-placed to respond to and provide advice on a wide range of issues.
The over-riding requirement of candidacy for Fellowship is excellence. The Council of the RSE seeks that excellence from across society.
Fellows (FRSE)
Are active in their area of work and will be able to evidence a contribution across the three dimensions of excellence: outstanding achievement, professional standing and societal contribution
Are resident in the UK with a clear, continuing connection to Scotland related to their expertise
Are requested to pay a joining fee and annual subscriptions. However, RSE does not wish anyone to be excluded from the Fellowship due to financial barriers therefore there is an option for case-by-case support
On average between 50-80 Fellows are elected every year.
Corresponding Fellows (CorrFRSE)
Are resident outside the UK
Usually have some demonstrable interest in, or connection to, Scotland
Are expected to engage in some way with the RSE – For example the RSE may approach Corresponding Fellows for their views on consultative questions with an international dimension
Election is intended to be honorific, without subscription
Are not eligible to hold office or to vote at any meeting of the RSE
May take on the rights of a Fellow upon becoming a permanent resident in the UK and subject to RSE Council approval
Elections per year are limited to ten.
Honorary Fellows (HonFRSE)
Are members of the Royal House or other individuals of truly exceptional distinction. They should be internationally renowned and are likely to be widely known outside their specialism
May be of any nationality or country of residence but should usually have some demonstrable interest in, or connection to, Scotland
Election is intended to be honorific, without subscription
Are not required to take an active part in the work of the RSE, although they are welcome, and indeed encouraged, to do so
Maximum of four Honorary Fellows may be elected in any one year, excluding members of the Royal House. The distinction expected for this category of Fellowship means that only in exceptional circumstances would the RSE elect four Honorary Fellows in the same year.
The Fellowship is split into four broad sectors, covering the full range of physical and life sciences, arts, humanities, social sciences, education, professions, industry, business and public life. This range of expertise within the Fellowship means that we are well-placed to respond to and provide advice and expertise on a wide range of issues.
Life Sciences
A1: Biomedical and Cognitive Sciences
A2: Clinical Sciences
A3: Organismal and Environmental Biology
A4: Cell and Molecular Biology
Physical, Engineering and Informatic Sciences
B1: Physics and Astronomy
B2: Earth Sciences and Chemistry
B3: Engineering
B4: Informatics, Mathematics and Statistics
Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
C1: Language, Literature and History
C2: Philosophy, Theology and Law
C3: History, Theory and Practice of the Creative and Performing Arts
C4: Economics and Social Sciences
Business, Public Service and Public Engagement
D1: Public Engagement and Understanding
D2: Professional, Educational and Public Sector Leadership
D3: Private Sector Leadership
Covid-19 update
All nominations
We are aware that Covid-19 continues to have a significant impact on many people’s work. We encourage proposers and candidates to explain any gaps, reduction in output etc. so that the Selection Committees can take this into consideration.
Continuing nominations
Normally candidates are considered for three years, with no option to put a nomination on hold. However, recognising the impact of Covid-19, we are offering the option to put a nomination on hold for one year. Please inform the Fellowship office if you would like your nomination to be put on hold and not considered this year.