USGEB was founded in 1969 as an union of Swiss scientific societies sharing a common interest for the emerging field of molecular and cellular (experimental) biology. The mission of the Union was the dissemination of ideas and experimental know-how between the young research groups and fostering the communication among the leaders of the field at the different academic institutions all over the country.
As of 2006 USGEB comprises seven member societies. USGEB member benefits are: Free registration for the USGEB annual meeting, fellowship travel awards for student members, employment assistance and public policy activities. Members become part of the Swiss Scientific Community united to promote excellence in research and education in the molecular life sciences.