Association of Applied Biologists

The Association of Applied Biologists (AAB) is a United Kingdom biological science learned society. From its foundation in 1904 until 1934, the institution was the Association of Economic Biologists. It publishes research and holds conferences in different specialisms of applied biology.

The AAB was founded in 1904 as the Association of Economic Biologists for workers in applied biology "to discuss new discoveries, to exchange experiences and carefully consider the best methods of work" and "promote and advance the science of Economic Biology in its agricultural, horticultural, medical and commercial aspects." "Within 10 years of its foundation, the association became the recognised society for all British workers interested in applied biology. Since then, the association has steadily expanded its knowledge." In 1934, the current title of Association of Applied Biologists was adopted. With some 900 members from a wide range of specialisms in the UK and overseas, "it has developed a portfolio of scientific publications and annual conference programme to achieve its objectives and promote the subject of applied biology."

The AAB organises conferences with universities specialising in agriculture and other aspects of applied biology, these have included Aberystwyth, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Nottingham, Reading and Illinois. It has working relationships with research institutes in agriculture, such as James Hutton Institute, the John Innes Centre and the Rothamsted Experimental Station. Papers published by the AAB are cited by governmental departments including Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Food and Environment Research Agency, Scottish Agricultural Science Agency and Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.