The Federation of the European Biochemical Societies, frequently abbreviated FEBS is an international scientific society promoting activities in biochemistry, molecular biology and molecular biophysics in Europe. Since it was founded in 1964 it has grown to include almost 40,000 members from 36 member societies and 7 associated societies from 43 countries [1].
FEBS sponsors advanced courses for Ph.D.-students and postdocs, arranges conferences and awards fellowships, awards and medals. FEBS distributes surplus scientific equipment in the poorer member countries as a part of the Scientific Apparatus Recycling Scheme (SARS). In addition, FEBS gives young scientists from Eastern and Central Europe a possibility to visit and work in labs in Western Europe. FEBS collaborates with related scientific societies such as the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), European Life Scientist Organisation (ELSO), and the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL). FEBS is also founding member of the Initiative for Science in Europe.
The Sir Hans Krebs Medal is awarded annually for outstanding achievements in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology or related sciences. It was endowed by the Lord Rank Centre for Research and named after the German-born British biochemist Hans Adolf Krebs, well known for identifying the urea and citric acid cycles. The awardee receives a silver medal and presents one of the plenary lectures at the FEBS Congress.