The International Society of Endocytobiology (ISE) was founded in 1983 in Tübingen during the Second International Colloquium on Endocytobiology. The Society aims to promote on the one hand the research of endocytobiology and of general (endo)symbiosis, and on the other the understanding of symbiotic interactions and of antisymbiotic processes (like intertaxonic combination) at the cellular level (e.g. physiological, biochemical and genetical aspects). This field of interest embraces both the significance of these interactions for host and symbiont, and their relevance to the origin and evolution of pro- and eukaryotic cells, including exogenosomes (cell organelles like chloroplasts) and exogenons (interspecific transferred whole genes or gene fragments), and furthermore related aspects of organismic and cellular biology (e.g. differentiation, dedifferentiation and rhythms).

The aims are promoted by holding meetings, e.g. the triannual Conference International Colloquium on Endocytobiology and Symbiosis

or Workshops and by publishing the international online journal Endocytobiosis and Cell Research.

The promotion comprises additionally the improvement of education in endocytobiology and general symbiology, furthermore the support of research e.g. by encouraging the closer cooperation of those researching in the fields of interest of the Society, and last not least the awarding in particular young scientists with poster- and presentation awards on conferences and workshops. We furthermore honor as outstanding scientists with the Miescher-Ishida-Prize.

The Society is purely scientific in purpose and there are no restrictions on membership on behalf of race, sex, political affiliation, creed, or nationality.