Who We Are

The International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) is the only international physics organization that is organized and run by the physics community itself. Its members are identified physics communities in countries or regions around the world.

The IUPAP was established in 1922 in Brussels with 13 Member countries and the first General Assembly was held in 1923 in Paris. It currently has 60 country members.

Mission

To assist in the worldwide development of physics, to foster international cooperation in physics, and to help in the application of physics toward solving problems of concern to humanity.

Member Benefits

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.

  • Be part of the world physics community represented by IUPAP and thus enable scientists to cooperate freely across political boundaries.
  • Have members of your local community take part in decision-making that impacts physics significantly on an international level.
  • Contribute to an international platform where scientists can raise their voices and express their views on any matter that relates to physics and physics practice and propose plans to address such matters.
  • Contribute to the definition of good conduct and good practice rules in science practice.
  • Be directly involved in the definition and organization of the activities related to the International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development.
  • Learn from the enriching cross-cultural and inter-generational dialogue that the IUPAP habilitates.
  • Have a direct participation in working groups and committees that address specific challenges of current concern such as inclusion and diversity, sustainability and energy.
  • Receive special attention to host IUPAP conferences, meetings and events.
  • Be part of our inter-disciplinary efforts through affiliated commissions and joint projects with other international unions, and through the IUPAP's participation in the International Science Council (ISC).
  • Be directly involved in the celebrations for the IUPAP's centennial
  • Have a direct representation in commissions which cover all the sub-disciplines of physics and other endeavours of general interest such as physics for development, physics and industry and physics education.
  • Get the support of the IUPAP to address local authorities on issues of concern for your local community.

News & Announcements

International Conferences

The IUPAP endorses and sponsors major international conferences promoting diversity and inclusion among participants, speakers and committee members. It also supports smaller gatherings, schools and workshops, especially in developing countries. IUPAP Commissions are directly involved in the conference selection within their sub-field and, in certain cases, in the organization of the conferences.

Awards for Established and
Early Career Scientists

The IUPAP supports a number of awards for scientists at different stages of their careers. IUPAP Commissions are in charge of organizing the process that leads to the selection of the awardees. Awardees are usually presented with their prizes at some of the major IUPAP sponsored conferences.