The RSE is an educational charity, registered in Scotland, operating on a wholly independent and non-party-political basis and providing public benefit throughout Scotland.

We were established in 1783 and since then have drawn upon the considerable strengths and varied expertise of our Fellows, of which there are currently around 1600, who are based in Scotland, the rest of the UK and beyond.

About the RSE

Unlike similar organisations in the rest of the UK, our Fellowship includes people from a wide range of disciplines – science & technology, arts, humanities, social science, business and public service. This breadth of expertise makes us unique in the UK. The time which our Fellows spend in supporting and enabling the delivery of our activities is an exceptional free resource, the annual public value of which is in excess of £0.7million.

Find out more about the RSE in this short video.

Our current strategic aspirations, objectives and the impact we aim to make, are set out in our Strategic Framework.

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History

The RSE was created in 1783 by Royal Charter for “the advancement of learning and useful knowledge”. Its first meetings...

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Mission & Strategy

The RSE’s aim is to play a leading role in the development of a modern enlightenment that will enable Scotland...

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People

All staff play an important role in supporting the RSE to achieve its mission. There are key behaviours and skills we expect of...

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How We Are Funded

The work of the RSE is funded from a number of sources. The chart below provides a detailed breakdown for...

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Our Policies

Equality and Diversity

How we value equality and diversity: The RSE values equality and diversity. Our differences enrich us as an organisation enabling...

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