An institute of physics is an organization dedicated to the advancement of physics. It could be a research institute, university department or professional body. Its members may also be involved in education, public engagement and policy work. The institutes have different structures and purposes, but all share a commitment to the advancement of physics.
The Institute of Physics (IOP) is a leading scientific society promoting physics and bringing physicists together for the benefit of all. It has a world-renowned publishing business, international conferences program and world-class Member Services offering support and careers advice to its members worldwide.
The IOP was founded in 1874 by twelve eminent physicists including Lord Rayleigh, James Clerk Maxwell and William Thomson (Lord Kelvin). Our mission today is as relevant as it was then: “to advance and diffuse the knowledge of physics”. We aim to achieve this through our activities in education, research publishing, membership services and outreach & policy work.
The IOP is unique among scientific societies in having both a vibrant publishing business – which includes one of the world’s leading peer-reviewed journals portfolios – and an internationally respected conference program. We also offer outstanding member services, including careers advice, professional development opportunities and support for early career researchers. In addition, we are committed to increasing diversity within our community and supporting equality & inclusion across all our activities.
We are proud to have over 50 000 members in more than 80 countries worldwide; around two thirds of these are based outside the UK. Our membership comprises physicists from all sectors – academia, industry, government laboratories – working in all areas of physics from astrophysics to nanotechnology.