The Forensic Science Society is the main Professional Body for individuals working as forensic practitioners, academics, researchers and in related professions in the UK and is considered to be the 'international voice of forensic science'.
The most valued asset of the Society is our members, and we currently have over 2,000 members worldwide. However, we would like to welcome more forensic professionals / students / enthusiasts as members. The larger the pool of forensic expertise, the richer the communication and collaboration , thus leading to effective sharing of best practice and research findings and subsequent progression within the various fields of forensic science.
MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
Prior to becoming a Professional Body, there were two categories of membership: Student and Ordinary Member. On becoming a Professional Body in 2004, we developed four membership categories according to various criteria. At this time, Ordinary Members automatically became Affiliates and were invited to apply for Profesional Membership. A summary comparison between the different membership criteria is as follows:
The criteria for each category of membership are specific and a summary of these criteria can be accessed here. Full criteria and application procedures can be accessed by clicking on the name of the membership category in the table above.
The administration fee for Professional Membership is currently waived. Subscription Rates are still applicable
MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
The application requirements are dependent on the category of membership. The criteria above enables you to identify the likely membership category to suit your situation. Please access the web page for that membership category by clicking on the relevant category in the above table or selecting it from the drop down menu to the left. These pages contain more in-depth information on the membership criteria and application requirements in addition to the relevant application form. However, you may also access all application forms directly using the following link:
Access All Membership Application Forms
Please note that two references are required foe some membership categories and the referees should ideally be members of the FSSoc where possible. However, if this is not possible references may be accepted from non-members (contact the membership secretary for advice).
FAST TRACK MEMBERSHIP
At a recent Extraordinary General Meeting the Board of the CRFP decided that it is no longer in a position to fulfill its objectives and resolved that the company should cease trading as from the 31st March 2009.
In light of this decision the Forensic Science Society has had to withdraw the fast track professional membership procedure for applicants who were already registered with the CRFP. This in no way affects the professional membership for any persons who have previously applied or been accepted for professional membership of the Forensic Science Society, through the fast track system, prior to the 31st March 2009.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
The Vice President of the society has a responsibility to manage the membership and as part of this role, they are constantly seeking new and exciting membership benefits. A full list of members benefits are included below, but examples include:
1. A hard copy of Science and Justice (FSSoc Journal) sent to your home quarterly
2. Access to Science and Justice Online
3. A copy of the newsletter (Interfaces) sent to your home quarterly
4. 20% Discount on Wiley Publisher Books
5. Discounts on fees for FSSoc conferences
Professional Members and Fellows have the following additional benefits:
1. Entitlement to use the post-nominal 'MFSSoc' or 'FFSSoc'
2. Access to the Journal of the FSSoc (pre-1995 version of Science & Justice) Online
3. 50% discount on annual subscription to New Scientist [Download Form Now]
Full list of membership benefits
FEES
Membership is granted by the FSSoc memberships and ethics committee (MEC) and on acceptance each member pays an annual subscription fee. The current annual membership fees are listed below, but it is important to note that if you become a member during the year (Nov-Oct), you are only required to pay for the remainder of the year, not the whole year . For retired persons there is a reduced fee.
| STUDENTS | £40* |
| AFFILIATES | £65* |
| MEMBERS | £86* |
| FELLOWS | £108* |
| RETIRED | £40* |
* The fee stated is the annual fee. The annual fee for retired members is £40 irrespective of their membership category. In order to qualify for retired members fees, you must no longer be drawing a salary and should not be udndertaking paid work as a consultant.
