Who We Are

Who We Are

Biometry, the active pursuit of biological knowledge by quantitative methods. – R.A. Fisher, 1948

The International Biometric Society (IBS) is dedicated to the development and application of statistical and mathematical theory and methods in the biosciences. These fields include agriculture, biomedical science, public health, ecology, environmental sciences, forestry, and related disciplines. The Society welcomes statisticians, mathematicians, biological scientists, and others engaged in interdisciplinary efforts to advance data collection and interpretation in the biosciences. 

Governance and Structure

IBS is organized into geographically defined Regions, each requiring at least ten members. The Society is governed by an Executive Board of General Officers and a Representative Council that serves as the voice of the international membership. Regions elect their own officers and governing boards. Members can access Region information through the respective Region websites, or by contacting the Regional Secretary or the Society’s International Business Office. 

Membership 

Most individuals join IBS by submitting a completed application to their local Region Secretary. Membership through local Regions is highly encouraged. However, if no local Region exists in your area, individuals may join the IBS directly by visiting the “Join IBS” information page. 

Annual membership includes electronic subscriptions to Biometrics, JABES, and the Biometric Bulletin newsletter, along with many other programs and services. Membership fees vary by Region. A portion of the fees is allocated to IBS for services, research, and programs. 

Publications

  • Biometrics: Published quarterly in electronic form, Biometrics promotes statistical and mathematical methods in the biosciences. Articles focus on novel biometrical techniques and their application to real-world challenges.

  • Journal of Agricultural, Biological, and Environmental Statistics (JABES): Published jointly with the American Statistical Association (ASA) on a quarterly basis, JABES focuses on statistical methods in the agricultural, biological, and environmental sciences. 

  • Biometric Bulletin: A quarterly newsletter featuring Society and member activities, updates from the Society’s leaders, letters to the editor, editorial commentaries, special features, and advertisements. It provides a platform for members to discuss statistical and biometrical matters. 

Meetings and Conferences

The biennial International Biometric Conference (IBC), sponsored and managed by the Society, is held globally and brings together statisticians and scientists involved in statistical and mathematical applications in the biosciences. The conference includes oral and poster presentations on methodological advances, applied research, unique social programs, special educational offerings and much more. Visit the main IBC page here. 

Many Regions and IBS Networks also organize regular conferences, often in collaboration with neighboring IBS Regions or related societies. These meetings provide opportunities for members to present research and exchange ideas through formal presentations and informal networking with fellow biometricians and scientists. 

Group Photo

Our History

Founded in 1947, we are proud to celebrate the Society's history, diversity and accomplishments. Interested in how the IBS membership has changed over the years? Click here to view a special report from IBS Past President Niels Keiding, showing membership figures by Region between the years 1948 and 1995.

Learn More About IBS History