BELS meaning in Academic & Science ?

The Board of Editors in the Life Sciences (BELS) is a professional organization that awards credentials to exemplary manuscript editors in the life sciences (e.g., medicine, biology, agriculture). Here, the term "manuscript editor" refers to both authors' editors and editors employed by academic publishers (often called copy editors or editor-in-chief). Individuals who demonstrate excellence in editing and an understanding of the ethical principles of publishing—both of which are assessed through a certification exam—are awarded the title Editor in the Life Sciences and may use the initials ELS after their names.

BELS was founded in 1991 and offers certification examinations several times each year at various locations across the United States and in other countries. Once certified, BELS members can access other members' contact information, job openings, and links to similar editorial associations through the BELS website. All organizational functions of BELS are performed by volunteers among its members.