Benn Selby joined the University of Sydney as an undergraduate in 1933 having gained an Exhibition in Physics during his secondary studies at Sydney Church of England Grammar School (Shore). He graduated in Science in 1935 with majors in Chemistry and Biochemistry and from 1936 onwards, apart from a period of absence on military service, during which he was mentioned in despatches for distinguished service and rose to the rank of Major, served H.B. Selby & Co. (later H.B. Selby Australia) as a Director, Managing Director and Deputy Chairman until 1982.

His commercial life has been informed by a passion for science and a passion for community service. Among his many contributions he was a member of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute for over 40 years, a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management and a Trustee and Executive Member of the Committee for Economic Development of Australia.

Benn Selby was a great believer in the company philosophy 'Look after the kids properly. They are the chemists of the future'. This philosophy saw the company sponsor the Victorian Science Talent Quest and contribute to the International Chemical Olympiad. Enlightened policies of equipment procurement and pricing assisted to establish infrastructure in Universities as well as scientific resources in schools. The name Selby was synonymous with excellence.

The Selby family philosophy of support for science and support for excellence gave rise to the establishment of the Selby Scientific Foundation. The Foundation supports scientific, technical and medical education and research and since its inception in 1980 has assisted with projects managed by the Australian Academy of Science, the University of Melbourne and several other tertiary institutions throughout Australia.

Benn Selby has been a driving force for the Foundation and has played a pivotal role in its focus and success. The annual Selby Research Award at the University of Melbourne has supported the work of excellent young researchers from several faculties by allowing them to purchase equipment critical to their immediate and ongoing research.

Benn Selby has devoted his life to scientific support and scientific excellence. In the broadest sense he has made an outstanding contribution to the promotion and development of science in Australia and beyond.