The Controlled Release Society (CRS) was founded in the USA in 1978 to advance the science and technology of controlling the release and delivery of active agents. It is recognised worldwide as the premier professional society in this still developing field. The CRS is establishing local "chapters" of the organisation around the World and the United Kingdom Controlled Release Society was formed in 1994. In 1998, Ireland joined forces and the United Kingdom and Ireland Controlled Release Society (UKICRS) was formed.

The UKICRS addresses a broad range of research fields based on controlled release which include agriculture, veterinary, food and cosmetic sciences. The Committee has drawn up several key aims and objectives, principally:

• To develop the UK and Ireland Controlled Release Society into the primary national organisation for the representation, education, and dissemination of information to scientists from all disciplines who are interested in any aspect of controlled or advanced delivery.
• To broaden the understanding of controlled release science through the organisation of workshops and meetings where lectures presented by scientists drawn from inside and outside the society shall promote discussion and exchange of views.
• To develop links with other scientific organisations and to make representations to government, professional and scientific bodies on issues which may promote the interests of the controlled or advanced delivery community.