New from the Institute of Physics
IOP membership changes
The IOP is under-going several membership changes this year with the changes being voted upon at the 2017 Annual General Meeting. The changes we are proposing are:
Simplifying our membership structure
We are simplifying our existing structure from seven to four categories and, by doing so, removing barriers to move through the different categories, whilst maintaining the excellence attained through professional progression. An improved offer and professional development support will be provided as part of the new structure.
A fairer fee model
Our current fee model has 32 different categories. This has become unwieldly and in many cases unfair when looked at in the context of our diverse membership. With the review of our membership categories, we’re proposing a fee model that is fairer and aligns with the proposed structure. This will allow us to support members in the way that benefits them at the different stages of their studies and career. We are increasing our concession threshold from £12,500pa to £19,000pa, in line with the London Living Wage, so many more can benefit from membership of the IOP.
Introducing a fee for undergraduates and trainees
An important part of what we do is to support those who are in the early stages of their career. We have talked to many university students on campuses and with those on different vocational training schemes. We have been pleased to hear their enthusiasm for being part of our organisation and the type of support we provide during their studies and in making future career choices. With this in mind, we’re proposing the introduction of an annual fee of £15 as a contribution to the support and opportunities students and trainees will receive.
The changes we are proposing have been approved by the IOP council and will allow us to build a contemporary membership that responds to the changing landscape of physics today.
Further information on the changes can be found on the IOP website and the membership team are always available to answer any questions you have; please email them at membership [at] iop [dot] org.
EPS historic site in Bristol
The H. H. Wills Physics Laboratory (Royal Fort), at the University of Bristol has been awarded EPS Historic Site status. To mark the award, the university is organising a one-day event on 13 September 2017, combining a conference on the past and present work on particle physics in Bristol, a public talk from a distinguished particle physicist, as well as an unveiling ceremony for the plaque. Representatives from the EPS and the IOP have been invited to attend the event.
Fernand and Holweck Medal and Prize
The 2017 Fernand Holweck Medal and Prize was presented to Professor Victor Malka at the STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Abingdon, Oxfordshire on 5 June on behalf of the IOP and the French Physical Society (SFP). Professor Malka, from the Laboratoire D’Optique Appliquée and the Weizmann Institute of Science, received the prize for “his world-recognised expertise in the area of plasma physics and his multidisciplinary collaborative approach”.
