SAMS is a Learned Society whose membership is open to all who have an enduring interest in the marine environment. We currently have around 500 members from all over the world. In this capacity SAMS is involved with science in society initiatives, organises scientific meetings that facilitate discussions in the marine science community e.g. through the Scottish Marine Group or by hosting conferences such as the Challenger Society's bienniel marine science conference, administers a marine science bursary scheme, produces a bi-annual Newsletter, an Annual Report and other publications, and contributes to public consultations and discussions about improving the stewardship of the marine environment.

Since its beginnings in the late 19th century the Association has been strongly committed to public and academic education and public discussions. We thus continue in a long tradition when we engage with both primary and secondary school education, as well as local and regional environment fairs and science and sea festivals. We also showcase some of our research findings to the wider public by exhibiting e.g. in the SeaLife Sanctuary or The Deep. 

The adult general public receives most of its information on research findings from the media and SAMS thus operates a proactive media strategy to disseminate its research findings to the wider community.

SAMS engages actively with its local community. Regular open days are held at the Dunstaffnage Marine Laboratory to ensure that local people remain fully informed about the type of work carried out at SAMS. We also engage with local schools and provide workplace experience for young people. Through our engagement with UHI Millennium Institute we contribute to improving the future of the highlands and islands of Scotland through the creation of a novel university.