IST Fellowship: Recognition of Excellence in the Technical Workforce
Complete Guide to IST Fellowship: Eligibility, Application Process, and Requirements
The IST Fellowship represents the highest level of professional recognition awarded by the Institute of Science and Technology (IST). It is designed for senior professionals who have demonstrated sustained achievement, leadership, and meaningful contribution within science, technology, engineering, and related technical disciplines.
What Is the IST Fellowship?
The IST Fellowship is a senior class of membership that acknowledges individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their field over many years of responsible and impactful work. Fellows are recognized not only for technical expertise, but also for their influence on the profession, mentorship of others, and commitment to advancing the technical workforce in the UK.
Successful candidates are entitled to use the post-nominal FIScT, signaling professional distinction, credibility, and peer recognition.
Benefits of Becoming a Fellow
Professional Recognition: Use of FIScT credentials after your name
Peer Network: Join a professional network of fellow peers to share best practice
Career Enhancement: Add significant value to your CV and career prospects
Professional Contribution: Opportunity to contribute to IST activities and development through exciting challenges
Industry Visibility: Increased visibility and recognition within your professional community
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements
Basic Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IST Fellowship, you must meet the following fundamental requirements:
Prior Membership: Have at least one year of membership at MIScT (Member of the Institute) level prior to your Fellowship application or nomination
Experience: Demonstrate considerable experience gained over a number of years of responsible work in science and/or technology
Achievement: Be able to demonstrate important achievements relating to the application of science, technology, or management skills
Professional Standards: Demonstrate that you have attained appropriate educational and technical standards in the profession
Exceptional Circumstances
In exceptional circumstances, the Executive may elect Fellows who have not previously been members. However, the same assessment criteria apply, though the process differs slightly.
Is Nomination Required? How Can You Apply?
The IST Fellowship offers two pathways to apply—you do NOT need to be nominated:
Pathway 1: Nomination by Existing Members
Who Can Nominate: Existing members of the IST Executive can nominate qualified individuals for Fellowship
Nominator’s Role: The nominating member will be assumed to act as a referee and may be consulted by the Fellowship Panel
Nominator Restrictions: Members who nominate individuals cannot sit on the appointed Fellowship Panel
Pathway 2: Self-Application (Independent Application)
Self-Nomination: You may apply in your own right without being nominated by an Executive member
Equal Treatment: Self-applicants are assessed using the same criteria as nominated applicants
Recommended Approach: This pathway is ideal if you have the necessary qualifications and don’t have a connection to an Executive member
Both pathways have equal weight in the evaluation process.
How to Apply: The Application Process
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
Download the official Fellowship Application Form from the IST website (istonline.org.uk) or request it from the IST Registered Office
Familiarize yourself with all sections before beginning
Step 2: Complete Section 1 (All Applicants)
All applicants must complete SECTION 1 of the application form, which requires:
Confirmation that you have considerable experience with a number of years of responsible work in science and/or technology
Demonstration of important achievements relating to the application of science and/or technology
Supporting documentation:
Full, detailed curriculum vitae (CV) including:
Education and employment history
Details of responsibilities and technical expertise
Evidence of educational attainments
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) records
Any special attributes or specialism(s)
References from two qualified persons who can endorse your application
Step 3: Provide Evidence for ONE of Sections 2-5
In addition to Section 1, you must provide evidence that demonstrates your qualifications. Choose ONE section that best fits your achievements:
SECTION 2: Post-Graduate Qualification Route
Requirement: Proof of a successfully completed PhD, MSc, M.Phil., or equivalent post-graduate qualification
Evidence Needed:
Copy of your thesis or dissertation
The thesis must demonstrate evidence of your technical expertise
Best For: Candidates with advanced academic qualifications
SECTION 3: Scientific Publications Route
Requirement: Evidence of contribution to at least five scientific or technological papers, reports, presentations, conference abstracts, or poster presentations
Evidence Details:
You should ideally be listed as an author
However, mention in acknowledgements is acceptable if it clearly demonstrates your significant technical contribution to the publication
Provide copies or links to the publications
Best For: Candidates with a strong publication record in scientific/technological work
SECTION 4: Extensive Experience and Achievement Route
Requirement: Comprehensive profile supporting considerable experience and achievement over several years
Evidence Must Include:
Comprehensive details of all scientific, managerial, or specialist ability
Documentation of:
Original research or development work
Outstanding service on national or international professional initiatives, committees, or working parties
Attainment of Superintendent or Technical Manager grade (or similar senior position)
Established reputation, regionally or nationally, as a science technician in education
Technological innovation such as patents
Successful creation of own technology-based business
Relevant and accredited CPD
Extensive and broad-ranging experience
Significant contribution to IST work and its aims
Best For: Candidates with long-standing careers and proven achievements
SECTION 5: Combined Evidence Route (Most Flexible)
Requirement: A combination of evidence from any of the above categories
Evidence Needed:
Combination of materials from Sections 2, 3, and/or 4
Evidenced statement supporting why your collective achievements warrant recognition
Comprehensive information demonstrating why you meet Fellowship criteria
Best For: Candidates whose achievements don’t fit neatly into one category but are collectively impressive
What Qualifications Are Required?
Educational Standards
Fellowship candidates must demonstrate important achievements in the practice and application of science and/or technology and have attained appropriate educational and technical standards in the profession. This can be proven through:
Successfully completed PhD, MSc, or M.Phil. thesis
Scientific papers or published work
Acknowledged expertise in your field
High-level managerial skills
A combination of the above
Experience-Based Achievements
Candidates with many years of experience and outstanding impact can be considered without necessarily having advanced degrees. Qualifying achievements include:
Original research or development - Innovative work that advances the field
Outstanding service - National or international professional initiatives, committees, or working parties
Senior positions - Attainment of Superintendent or Technical Manager grade, or position of similar seniority
Established reputation - Regional or national recognition as a science technician in education
Technological innovation - Patents or inventions
Business creation - Successful creation of your own technology-based business
Professional development - Relevant and accredited CPD
Broad experience - Extensive and wide-ranging experience in your field
IST contribution - Significant contribution to IST work and furtherance of its aims
Combination - Any combination of the above achievements
The Evaluation Process
The Fellowship Panel
Comprised of at least 3 Fellows of the Institute in good standing
Fellows are elected by the IST Executive on the recommendation of the Fellowship Panel
The Panel considers:
Your qualifications
Professional work experience
Contribution to the advancement of science and/or technology
What Happens After You Submit?
CV Submission Agreement: By submitting your CV, you agree to have it scrutinized by the appointed Fellowship Panel and other members as deemed necessary
Reference Checks: The Panel may contact your references directly
Additional Information: The Panel may request additional information and verification if necessary
Interview: In some cases, the Panel may interview you
Unsuccessful Applications
If you are not elected:
You will be given specific reasons for non-election
You will receive encouragement and guidance for future applications
Re-application is recommended only after you have gained additional skills and experience
The Panel typically requests additional information if needed, so non-election usually indicates insufficient skills or experience for that stage of your career
Where to Submit Your Application
Email Address: memberships@istonline.org.uk
What to Include:
Completed Fellowship Application Form
Full CV (detailed and comprehensive)
Supporting evidence for your chosen section (2, 3, 4, or 5)
References from two qualified persons
For nominations: Outline from the nominator justifying your suitability
Contact for Questions: Fellowship Secretary, Mr Derek Sayers (via memberships@istonline.org.uk)
Fellowship Renewal Requirements
Two-Year Review Process
The IST undertakes a review of Fellow membership every two years to ensure Fellows remain engaged with the Institute.
Maintenance of Fellowship Status
To retain your Fellowship status, you must:
Contribute in some way to the activities and/or development of the IST
Suggested Contribution Methods
The IST is flexible about how Fellows can contribute. Options include:
Knowledge Sharing
Submission of Journal articles
Support for professional registration
Offering guidance and mentoring to members
Community Engagement
Mentoring members interested in professional registration
Providing CPD guidance and support
Acting as liaison between potential members and IST
Providing networking opportunities for members
Institute Support
Enhancement of IST profile in the workplace
Dissemination of IST information to technicians
Giving standard IST presentations at regional events
Contributing to IST Journal and/or Newsletter
Professional Service
Acting as a registration/Fellowship assessor
Taking part in IST working groups (e.g., Women in Science group)
Supporting advancement of UK technical workforce
Other Options: The IST is happy to discuss additional contribution options with Fellows
Special Note on Retired Fellows
Retired Fellows are not expected to maintain active contributions to retain their Fellowship status.
Summary: Quick Reference Checklist
Before You Apply, Ensure You Have:
[ ✅] At least one year of membership at MIScT level
[ ✅] Considerable experience in science and/or technology
[✅] Important achievements to demonstrate
[ ✅] Completed Fellowship Application Form
[✅] Comprehensive CV with education, employment, and technical expertise
[✅] Evidence for one of Sections 2-5 (postgraduate qualification, publications, extensive experience, or combination)
[✅ ] References from two qualified persons
[✅] If nominated: Outline from nominator justifying your suitability
Application Submission:
Email: memberships@istonline.org.uk
Include all required documentation
Contact Fellowship Secretary (Derek Sayers) if you have questions about eligibility
IST Fellowship represents the pinnacle of professional recognition for technical professionals. Whether you choose the nomination pathway or apply independently, the application process is designed to fairly assess your qualifications, experience, and contributions to your field. By meeting the eligibility requirements and presenting comprehensive evidence of your achievements across one of the designated sections, you can position yourself as a candidate worthy of this prestigious credential. The FIScT designation will enhance your professional standing, expand your network, and provide opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the UK technical workforce.
For more information and to begin your application, visit the IST website at istonline.org.uk or contact memberships@istonline.org.uk.