The International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB), established in 1997, is a non-profit scholarly organization serving researchers in computational biology and bioinformatics worldwide. Its primary purpose is to advance the scientific understanding of living systems through computational methods and to disseminate these advancements globally.
ISCB’s Core Activities
The ISCB fulfills its mission through various activities, offering platforms for scientific exchange and professional growth. Its flagship event is the annual International Conference on Intelligent Systems for Molecular Biology (ISMB), often held jointly with the European Conference on Computational Biology (ECCB) in Europe. This large gathering hosts thousands of delegates, features over 500 scientific talks, and provides a venue for presenting cutting-edge research. The society also organizes numerous smaller, specialized regional or topical conferences and workshops throughout the year.
The society plays a role in scholarly publishing, with official peer-reviewed journals including Bioinformatics, PLOS Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics Advances. These publications disseminate new research, methods, and tools within the computational biology community. They also feature “Society Pages” that highlight ISCB programs and accomplishments.
ISCB supports the next generation of researchers and promotes continuous learning through education and training initiatives. The ISCB Student Council (ISCBSC) organizes symposia, workshops, and webinars to foster new talent and enhance bioinformatics skills. The society also provides online educational resources via ISCBtv, featuring recorded talks and tutorials, and offers a Degree Endorsement Program to certify computational biology education quality. These efforts are guided by the ISCB Competency Framework, which defines the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for bioinformatics professionals.
The society also advocates for the computational biology and bioinformatics fields. It engages in policy discussions to support research funding, promote ethical considerations, and increase public understanding of its scientific endeavors. This advocacy ensures the voice of computational biology is heard in conversations influencing scientific policy and resource allocation globally.
Connecting the Global Computational Biology Community
ISCB fosters a connected and collaborative environment for computational biologists worldwide. Membership links over 4,000 researchers, practitioners, and students to a global network. Benefits include discounted access to conferences, publications, and career resources, making participation accessible for professionals at various stages.
The society facilitates focused collaboration through its Communities of Special Interest (COSIs), formerly Special Interest Groups (SIGs). These member-driven communities concentrate on specific research themes, such as structural bioinformatics, regulatory genomics, or bio-ontologies, engaging in year-round discussions and activities. COSIs also help develop scientific programs for major conferences like ISMB, ensuring emerging research areas are well-represented.
Building local connections is supported by the ISCB Student Council’s Regional Student Groups (RSGs). These local chapters, present across continents, organize regional events, workshops, and networking opportunities for students and early-career researchers. RSGs serve as a bridge between local academia and industry, promoting professional development and making computational biology accessible at the grassroots level.
ISCB platforms and events provide opportunities for networking and mentorship. Conferences feature dedicated networking sessions to facilitate connections between participants. The ISCB Student Council offers mentorship programs and an internship program, placing students from developing nations in leading international research laboratories. These initiatives help students and professionals connect with experienced mentors, share ideas, and navigate their career paths.
Advancing the Field of Computational Biology
The ISCB contributes to computational biology by providing a platform for research dissemination and collaboration. Through its conferences, particularly ISMB, the society offers a venue for presenting novel research and methodologies. This exposure fosters innovation, allowing new discoveries and computational approaches to gain visibility and influence future scientific directions.
The society promotes standardization and best practices within the field. Its Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct outlines principles for honesty, integrity, and respectful behavior in scientific activities. The ISCB Competency Framework also provides a guideline for bioinformatics education and training, supporting reproducible research practices and ensuring consistent knowledge and skills across the profession.
ISCB serves as a bridge between diverse scientific disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Its conferences regularly bring together researchers from computer science, molecular biology, mathematics, and statistics to address complex biological problems. This convergence of expertise drives integrated research, leading to a comprehensive understanding of living systems.
The society supports the professional growth of individuals, contributing to a skilled workforce in computational biology. The ISCB Career Center offers resources such as job postings, a resume repository, and career development tools. The ISCB Student Council’s initiatives, including travel fellowships and internships, provide opportunities for students and early-career researchers to gain experience and advance their careers.
ISCB recognizes outstanding contributions to the field through its annual awards program. These include the Overton Prize for early to mid-career scientists, the ISCB Innovator Award for consistent significant contributions, and the Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award for leaders with long-standing impact. These accolades motivate excellence and highlight individuals who have shaped the landscape of computational biology.