The Institute of Wood Science was incorporated in 1955, was limited by guarantee and was registered as a charity in 1998. In 2009 the activities of the IWSc were taken on by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining, and IWSc: The Wood Technology Society was formed as a division of IOM3.

The Society, originally based in the City of London, UK, is the professional body for the timber and allied industries. It aims to promote and encourage a better understanding of timber, wood-based materials and associated timber processes.

The Society exists for all who care for and have an interest in timber and wood based products and, in particular, those employed within the timber importing, merchanting, manufacturing and user industries, together with those in education and research. In conjunction with a number of colleges and training agencies in the UK and Ireland, the Society organises courses in wood technology and utilisation and awards appropriate qualifications.

A National Conference is usually organised annually and held in various parts of the UK attracting speakers and delegates from around the world. There are active branches of the Society throughout the UK, Ireland, and in Australia and Canada. These branches organise local activities including joint meetings with other interested bodies, symposia and visits to places of interest.

The Journal of the Society is published bi-annually. Libraries and scientific institutions throughout the world subscribe to the Journal which contains refereed papers on wood science and technology. All Society members, including student members, have free online access to the journal as well as other IOM3 publications. Members can subscribe to the print journal at a discounted rate via the Maney Publishing website. The Membership of the Society is worldwide.