By Claire Angus, Chief Executive
The British Institute of Radiology (BIR) is the oldest radiological society in the world. Its origins date back to 2 April 1897, when the first meeting was held to establish The X-ray Society.
129 years old but the BIR remains forward-thinking and innovative, continually adapting to the evolving environments in which our healthcare colleagues work. While the original impetus for the society came largely from doctors, it is notable that its first President was the renowned physicist Silvanus P. Thompson. This early collaboration between science and medicine established a tradition of alternating scientific and medical Presidents that continues to this day. Collaboration wasn’t accidental; it was built into the structure.
Back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, most medical societies were intentionally built around a single profession. But the BIR was different from the very beginning. It opened its membership to “all who are interested in the scientific study of the Röntgen Rays,” deliberately breaking down professional silos to accelerate learning, discovery, and innovation.
Our rich history and the involvement of influential figures since the BIR’s inception have shaped a respected and enduring organisation. Today, we bring together the full spectrum of imaging and radiotherapy professionals, creating a truly multidisciplinary community dedicated to advancing science, sharing knowledge, and improving patient care. That spirit of collaboration feels more important than ever as we navigate rapid technological change, ongoing workforce pressures and new models of care.
If we want diverse perspectives, we must design environments where they meet by default, not by luck. History has shown us that when collaboration is built into the system, innovation becomes the natural outcome.
Knowledge is power—and it has always been central to the BIR’s purpose. From Archives of Clinical Skiagraphy to what we now know as the British Journal of Radiology (BJR), the BIR invested early in spaces where learning could cross boundaries. Today, our “modern infrastructure” is just as vital especially as we navigate AI and where that fits in our knowledge ecosystem. One of the reasons BIR has been around for 129 years and is still relevant today is because knowledge‑sharing is one of the most powerful tools we have.
Through education, events, cutting-edge research, and collaborative networks, we support our members to connect, develop, and lead. We champion innovation, foster scientific progress, and empower our community to make a meaningful and lasting impact on their careers, the profession, and patients worldwide.
At our core, we are building a growing, progressive community that values every voice, encourages knowledge sharing, and drives the future of imaging and radiotherapy forward.
What sets us apart is not only our history, but our unwavering focus on the future. For over 125 years, the BIR has been at the forefront of innovation—from the earliest X-rays to today’s most advanced technologies. We are the only organisation that brings the full imaging and radiotherapy communities together, side by side, to collaborate, learn, and grow. This unique blend of heritage, vision, and multidisciplinary connection creates a space that is both inclusive and impactful.
We are proud of the journey we have taken and look forward to working with colleagues, partners, and members to continue building a meaningful community—one that works together to enable better patient care.
