News 2026

Research Network member Elaine Francis is one of four newly elected members of the MRS Executive Board. She is a Fellow of the MRS and a trustee and board member of the MRBA.

We are delighted to announce that Sheila Byfield will be joining the Steering Committee and taking responsibility for the management of the Oral History programme.

Bidding is now open for the MRBA Auction 2026. This runs from 9:00am on Wednesday 4th March to 9:00pm on Thursday 19th March 2026.

There is still time to donate to the MRBA 2026 fundraising auction, which launches on Wednesday 4th March. No item is too small, and every contribution helps make this event a success. Some amazing prizes have already been donated.

We are excited to welcome Diego Correa to the Steering Group. He will take over as Head of Membership from Jane A’Court and Paul Russell.

According to Research Live, “despite a good-natured debate in Westminster, the stakes are high for future of the research sector”. The motion for the debate, organised by the MRS in partnership with The Debating Group, was that “We no longer need to speak directly to people to understand them”.

The MRS has announced that its new President is to be Baroness Deborah Mattinson. A researcher and political strategist, she takes over the role from Saj Arshad as his 4-year term comes to an end, and as the MRS approaches its 80th anniversary.

Congratulations to Network member Bob Qureshi FMRS, who has been awarded the MBE for services to business, charity and cricket in the New Year’s Honours list.