Institute of Physics

🔍 Got ideas on quantum tech? We're looking for students and new graduates to contribute to the qBIG Quantum Thoughts blog series! Write non-academic articles (300-600 words) on #quantum technology developments, from opinions to industry insights. Email submissions to membernetworks@iop.org, and don't forget to include your details. Submissions accepted on a rolling basis!📝 #QuantumTechnology #StudentSubmissions #QuantumThoughts

I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Manager Skills at Institute of Physics. It’s an exciting time as we move forward with the IOP strategy, Physics for our future where tackling the skills shortage and opening up opportunity is a priority. Read about that here iop.org/strategy and get in touch if you’d like to know more, or explore how we can work together.

Applications for the Bell Burnell Graduate Scholarship Fund are now open! The Fund is for full/part-time graduates wishing to study for a doctorate in physics from groups that are currently under-represented in physics. 🌟   Find out more and apply here: iop.org/BellBurnellFund 

Last chance to register! 🚀 Want to leverage world-class scientific facilities for your business? Join our Business Briefing on 30 September! Learn how STFC’s National Laboratories can support your research and innovation, with insights from experts in neutron sources, laser facilities, and more. 🗓️ Monday 30 September 2024 ⏰ 10:00 - 12:00 📍 Online 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eeFmYt-x Don’t miss this opportunity to collaborate with leading science facilities!

Physics can build a better 🌍 and it’s the people working in physics who make that a reality. The Physics Inclusion Award supports physics departments around the UK and Ireland to ensure physics welcomes and supports people from all backgrounds to thrive in our brilliant field. Interested? Meet the IOP and physics leaders who have developed the award at one of our roadshow events. Sign up here to find out more or join an event near you: https://lnkd.in/efMqE6_t

⭐ Tackling the stereotype that physics is 'too hard' 👇 We had many teachers and parents contact us this summer saying the AQA Physics A level exam once again seemed unreasonably difficult. Some reported talented students leaving the exam in tears or wanting to change undergraduate course. When results were published, the grade boundary for an A on the most challenging paper was only 48% - even the best candidates were getting more than half of the paper wrong. This matters. Not just for the young people spending the summer worried they might miss their grades but for every young person who has been put off physics because they think it's 'hard' or just simply 'not for them'. IOP research for our Limit Less campaign (https://lnkd.in/dSHxi6Jq) shows stereotypes like this have a particular impact on girls and other underrepresented groups. Meanwhile, this year, girls once again made up less than a quarter of physics A level students. So our CEO Tom Grinyer recently met AQA to discuss concerns about the overly challenging papers. We're pleased that AQA assured us they are taking the concerns seriously and are taking practical steps to improve for next year, including bringing on board some new practicing teachers to the team of scrutineers. This is welcome. It is now vital this translates into action. https://lnkd.in/erSxTtQU

"Everything starts with physics" is how Financial Times' Anjana Ahuja introduced our physics R&D panel discussion with Science select committee chair Chi Onwurah at Labour Party Conference yesterday. Here's why: 📈 Physics-powered businesses account for 11% UK GDP and 10% UK employment 👩🏾🎓 Physics gives young people the tools to change their world 🛰 Physics unlocks our universe and underpins game-changing innovations, from the World Wide Web to AI. Great to hear from panellists Robert Lamb, Jo Slota-Newson, Peter Stephens and Matt Brookes on the importance of physics R&D for the UK's future. From green energy to healthcare, physics innovation can change lives and drive growth across the UK. #PoweredByPhysics #SkillsScienceSociety

There's still time to register for this event! 👇

📰 Great article by IOP President Sir Keith Burnett, where he reflects on the resilience of academia amidst financial challenges. Celebrating the opening of Prof Ed Daws' quantum sensors lab at The University of Sheffield, he emphasises the importance of purpose and dedication in scientific discovery. ✨ 🖇 Read it here: https://lnkd.in/eURBcXY5

📣 The Council for Science and Technology is seeking new members! This is a fantastic opportunity for passionate individuals with expertise in science, engineering, innovation or technology to advise the Prime Minister and Cabinet on national priorities. Share your insights and help shape the future of science and innovation in the UK. 🗓 Deadline: 7 October 2024 🔗 Find out more and apply: https://lnkd.in/e_5r8hQ7