Becoming a member

IUPAP has an important mission: to assist in the worldwide development of physics and physics education, to foster international cooperation in physics, and to help in the application of physics toward solving problems of concern to humanity.

WHAT IS IUPAP?

It is the only international physics organization that is organized and run by the physics community itself. Its members are communities of physicists in countries or regions around the world. Currently there are 60 members.

WHAT DOES IUPAP DO?

In carrying out its mission, IUPAP sponsors major international conferences, strongly defends the free circulation of scientists, is concerned with major international facilities and publication of physics research, supports the equitable treatment of women in physics, and it awards prizes and medals to outstanding scientists, particularly young scientists. Through its flexible Working Groups, IUPAP can tackle new issues as they arise.

HOW DOES IUPAP CARRY OUT ITS WORK?

Much of this work is done by the  IUPAP Commissions covering the major sub-fields of physics as well as physics education and outreach to developing countries. The remaining activities are carried out by IUPAP’s Working Groups.

HOW IS IUPAP GOVERNED?

IUPAP’s governing body is the General Assembly, which meets every three years and has delegates from all member countries and regions. In between IUPAP is governed by the Executive Council, which is elected by and reports to the General Assembly.

HOW DO YOU JOIN IUPAP?

Countries or regions that wish to join IUPAP should write to Nithaya Chetty (Vice-President at Large for New Members) to express their interest. He will request some information and ask you to form a Liaison Committee.