One of the UK’s leading bodies advancing the study and application of wood science – the Institute of Wood Science (IWSc) – has reached its 70th anniversary. The IWSc was established on December 8, 1955, after the UK timber trade recognised the need to keep up with wood science, and to capitalise on emerging technology through increased knowledge and training. …In 1958 the Institute established the world-renowned Journal of the Institute of Wood Science. Over the period to 2009, there were 104 editions, containing more than 1,000 papers, articles and technical contributions – providing a substantial and lasting body of professional knowledge in wood science. In 2010 the Journal was re-branded as the International Wood Products Journal and continues to be published with 4 issues a year. …2009 saw the IWSc merge with the IOM3 (Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining). Its membership, activities, publications and expertise were incorporated into the larger institute’s structure.