XMaS Scientist Experience
How to Apply: The competition is currently closed but will open on the 01st December 2025.
Using the online application formLink opens in a new window please complete the following questions:
- Research and write an essay on: What science is Jenny Glusker famous for and how has her career inspired you? (500 words max)
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Making frequent reference to your own personal experiences and circumstances, explain how this opportunity would impact your future? (500 words max)
Please refrain from using AI tools when completing your application. Doing so will not improve your chances for success. We encourage you to write heartfelt, personal answers.
You must have a parent/guardian's permission to apply to this competition.
Applications for the 2026 trip will open on the 01st December 2025. Apply here: online application formLink opens in a new window
Jenny Glusker
Project Background
Launched in 2015, the XMaS Scientist Experience is a nationwide opportunity for any female/female-identifying Year 12 UK Physics students to join us on an all-expenses-paid 4-day trip to the ESRFLink opens in a new window in Grenoble, France, at the end of June/beginning of July. Our aim is to encourage students to consider science careers, foster a sense of community, encourage self-belief. We don’t need applicants to already excel at physics, but we do want students who are curious about the world around them, who are creative and keen to learn more about science and who are willing to share their enthusiasm. Through this trip we take students out of the classroom and show them science in a real-world application, with the aim of sparking an enthusiasm for the wonder of science. It is a tremendous opportunity to see how far a career in science can take them.Taking place on 27th June to the 01st July 2026, students will experience what life might be like as an international research scientist, visiting the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, to be shown around the beamlines by real-life female scientists, as well as taking part in the Synchrotron@School ProgrammeLink opens in a new window.
They will also get the opportunity to chat to amazing female scientists who live and work in Grenoble and also do a little bit of sight seeing in this beautiful French city.
There are sixteen places available, applications are welcome from female/female-identifying Year 12 UK Physics students. You will get the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals also studying physics with whom you will share twin rooms throughout the trip, which will help you to get to know each other and form life-long friendships with your peers! It is an all-expenses-paid trip - so travel, hotels and food are all covered by XMaS!
Watch the videoLink opens in a new window that was made by the ESRF team in July 2017.
Applicants will be expected to have an in-date passport, be able to gain any relevant visas, and be available from 27th June to the 01st July 2026.