Programme
Below is an overview of each session of the conference, where there are parallel sessions you will need to select your preferred session via the registration / payment page.
Sunday 6th April
Arrival at University of Warwick from 15.30.
Head to Senate House ReceptionLink opens in a new window to register and check-in to accommodation. Look out for our Physics student ambassadors wearing purple tops to help you!
Once you have collected your accommodation key and registration pack, our student ambassadors will guide you to your accommodation.
Free time until welcome reception.
Mocktail on arrival.
Informal networking 18.00-18.30.
Welcome to the conference by the Provost 18.30.
Venue: Panorama Bar, Rootes building
Prof. Emma Flynn (She/Her)
Professor Emma Flynn is Provost at the University of Warwick where she supports the Vice-Chancellor in the academic leadership of the University.
A key aspect of her role is leading the development and delivery of the University’s academic strategy, ensuring that Warwick remains competitive and relevant within HE and beyond. She is responsible for the efficient and effective use of academic resources, including departmental resources, capital planning and space management, and information resources.
Emma has worked closely with local and national bodies to support the development and utilisation of world-leading research to have significant disciplinary, societal, environmental and economic impact. She has been a member of working groups aimed at improving international partnerships, global talent attraction and retention, and the role of place in innovation strategies. Within the university sector she has overseen international recruitment campaigns, established integrated planning and strategy structures, and led culture change agendas.
Suggested dress: Smart casual
Venue: Chancellor's Suite (next door to the welcome drinks)
2 course hot buffet meal. All mains will be served with a variety of side dishes.
Jugs of juice and water will be provided on each table, and the bar will be open if you wish to purchase any additional drinks.
Dinner to finish around 21.30.
Monday 7th April
Introduction from conference day lead, Ally Caldecote. Ally will explain how the schedule will run for the day, signpost to any specific areas of the building and any health and safety requirements.
Opening of the conference.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Prof. Mark Newton (He/Him)
Mark is the current Head of the Department of Physics and Director of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Centres for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Diamond Science and Technology (DST) which is a collaboration between 8 partner universities and over 20 companies. Mark's research focuses on understanding, controlling and exploiting the properties of colour centres and dopant atoms in diamond (Quantum Technology); developing sensors that exploit the extreme and unique combination of properties offered by diamond, and; developing new techniques in magnetic and optical spectroscopy.
Prof. Daniela Bortoletto
Daniela Bortoletto is Head of Particle Physics at the University of Oxford, and instigator of CUWiP in the UK.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
A keynote speech is usually the first talk of a conference which is given by an expert in their field.
Dr Julia Stawarz (She/Her)
Dr Julia Stawarz is an Associate Professor in the Solar 7 Space Physics group at Northumbria University where she currently holds a prestigious Royal Society University Research Fellowship. She received her BSc from the University of New Hampshire in 2011 and her MSc/PhS from the University of Colorado Boulder in 2016 where she held a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship. Her research focuses on using spacecraft measurements from the plasmas within our solar system – such as Earth’s magnetosphere and the solar wind – to study the fundamental physics and interplay between plasma turbulence, magnetic reconnection, and other collisionless plasma phenomena. She is particularly interested in understanding how these phenomena shape the Sun-Earth system that we live within, as well as more broadly understanding the fundamental physics that is, in principle, at play in many plasma environments throughout the Universe. She has received a number of awards for her research throughout her career, including the Basu Early Career Award from the American Geophysical Union, Winton Award from the Royal Astronomical Society, and Ronald C. Davidson Award for Plasma Physics from AIP Publishing and the APS Division of Plasma Physics.
Refreshment break on the Physics concourse.
The Impact of a Physics Degree on a Career in Industry with Warwick alumni followed by an interactive panel discussion.
An interactive panel discussion with Warwick physics alumni, where panellists will discuss their career paths and how they arrived in their current roles, as well as providing career advice and insight. They will discuss how their physics degree has set them up for their current role, and what a day in their working life is like. The panellists work in industries including science, technology, publishing, government, and science policy.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Ruhi Chitre (She/Her)
During her undergraduate studies in physics at the University of Warwick, Ruhi served as the President of the Warwick Astronomy Society and Co-President of the Warwick Careers Society. She also co-founded the Warwick Careers Conference. While at Warwick, Ruhi also attended the Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics (CUWiP), where a speaker recommended getting involved with the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), a global NGO with over 90,000 members across 70+ countries. This started a chain of events that led to her being elected as the President of IAPS. IAPS introduced her to the world of international science policy and diplomacy. This led her to pursue a Master's degree in International Relations at King's College London and to her science policy role at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris, where she has worked since September 2023.
Dr Ulrika D'Haenens-Johansson (She/Her)
Dr. Ulrika F.S. D’Haenens-Johansson is the Senior Manager of Diamond Research at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). She joined the New York laboratory as a Research Scientist in 2011, following her Masters and PhD degrees in Physics at the University of Warwick, United Kingdom. Her area of research is the defect physics of natural, treated and laboratory-grown diamond materials using optical and EPR spectroscopy, with particular focus on developing methods to ensure that they can be identified and separated, maintaining transparency within the trade. She is currently also managing the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) lab at GIA, working towards creating reproducible growth procedures for the production of gem-quality diamonds. She has published peer-reviewed scientific articles in journals including Gems & Gemology, Reviews in Mineralogy and Geochemistry, Physical Review B, and Applied Optics.
Dr Abi Graham (She/Her)
I’m Abi Graham, and I am a Measurement Scientist at Oxford Instruments NanoScience. My role involves performing low- temperature and high magnetic field measurements, using our world-leading magnet and cryogenic systems. I joined Oxford Instruments three years ago, after completing my PhD in physics at the University of Warwick. During my PhD, I studied the electronic properties of two-dimensional materials at synchrotron facilities across Europe.
Dr Hannah Hatcher (She/Her)
Hannah Hatcher received her integrated Master’s degree (MPhys) in Physics from the University of Warwick. Hannah remained at Warwick to study for a PhD under the supervision of Professor Emma MacPherson. During her PhD she investigated the biomedical applications of terahertz technology with a focus on the use of terahertz measurements of the skin to quantify changes in hydration. Hannah joined the Reviews Cross-Journal Editorial Team at Nature Reviews in January 2022 as an Associate Editor and was promoted to Senior Editor in January 2024. In this role Hannah works across the physical sciences journals, including Nature Reviews Physics, Nature Reviews Materials, Nature Reviews Chemistry and Nature Reviews Electrical Engineering.
Ayesha Irfan (She/Her)
I am a PhD student in Mathematical Physics at the University of Bristol working under Prof. Nina Snaith. Following a machine learning internship at the Oxford Maths department, I decided to pursue a career as a Data Scientist and I currently work for a data intelligence company called Naimuri alongside my PhD. I volunteer with many educational non-profits to make high-quality mathematics and physics resources readily accessible to everyone.
Stephanie Liggins (She/Her)
I am the "Product Development Lead - CVD" for Element Six, a world leader in designing and developing synthetic diamond for industrial applications. As the Product Development Lead for the Technologies business, I am responsible for the portfolio of research and development projects that deliver ground-breaking innovative solutions for our applications, platforms and products. Having started as a research scientist in the group, I now lead a team of 25 scientists and engineers at our Innovation Centre in Oxfordshire and collaborate globally with our operational committees, commercial, production teams and customers.
Dr Tishtrya Mehta (She/Her)
Tishtrya is a data scientist in the civil service, currently working on how we can use artificial intelligence to predict financial risk in the public sector. Her passion for astrophysics began at the University of St Andrews, where she earned a degree in Physics and Mathematics. She later pursued a PhD in helioseismology—the study of solar "earthquakes"—at the University of Warwick. In recent years, Tishtrya worked as a postdoctoral researcher, investigating subtle oscillations in the intensity of solar flares. Outside her professional endeavours, she is deeply involved in science communication and public engagement. In her free time, she enjoys quilting, ceramics, and exploring all things crafty.
Lunch will be a hot buffet. It will take 10-15 minutes to walk to and from the lunch venue which is included in this time.
Venue: Rootes restaurant
Life in Academia.
In this session you will be able to get an idea of what to expect if you wish to embark on a career in Academia. You will hear from a few female academics in Physics, all at different stages of their careers, talk briefly about their career path and their experiences of conducting research as well as teaching in a University environment. There will also be an opportunity for you to pose any questions you may have to the members of the panel.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Prof. Geetha Balakrishnan (She/Her)
Geetha Balakrishnan is a Professor in the Physics Department at the University of Warwick. She has worked at Warwick since 1991. She has previously worked as a Research Fellow in the Physics Department at Warwick (1986-1988). Her research interests are in the growth of single crystals of superconductors, magnetic, and related materials by a variety of techniques, including a large programme of work using optical furnaces for the floating zone technique. Also low temperature laboratory measurements and neutron scattering studies.
Prof. Sandra Chapman (She/Her)
Sandra Chapman is primarily but not exclusively a plasma physicist working on non-linear and complex systems in astrophysics and in the laboratory. She is Professor of Physics and Director of the Centre for Fusion, Space and Astrophysics at the University of Warwick. Recognition for her work includes the AGU Fall Meeting Ed Lorenz Lecture, the RAS Chapman Medal and the EGU Johannes Alfvén Medal. Sandra was a Fulbright Scholar, a Fellow at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study Harvard, an ISSI Geiss Fellow and has also been granted Research Fellowships by the Nuffield Foundation and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. She has published over 200 papers in the refereed literature and a textbook on Electrodynamics. She is also an artist who works to bridge the ‘arts-science divide’ and has held a NESTA Dreamtime fellowship – working as an artist with the British Antarctic Survey in Antarctica.
Dr Nishtha Chopra
Nishtha Chopra is a Research Fellow in the Ultrafast and Terahertz photonics group (Department of Physics). Her research aims to develop advanced Multipixel Terahertz (THz) Emitters and state-of-the-art THz spectrometers and imaging systems that will bring us one step closer in diagnosing skin cancer. Her research on technology development is inherently interdisciplinary and versatile enough to be extend to other sectors such as 6G communication, manufacturing, non-destructive testing and biosensing. Prior to joining the University of Warwick, she was a Radiation Scientist at the UK Health Security Agency carrying out research to advance the knowledge about protection from the risks of radiation and support the UK government, public and other institutions on radiation standards and guidelines. She has also worked on studying biomolecules with a particular interest in THz time domain spectroscopy of extracellular matrix and bone constituents. She received her PhD in Electronics Engineering from Queen Mary University of London, in 2017 and her MSc in Nanoelectronics from the University of Manchester, in 2013.
Dr Wing Ying Chow (They/She)
Ying is an Assistant Professor in Physics in the Solid-state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) group at the University of Warwick. She applies solid-state NMR to investigate biomolecules that are found outside the cells, which are often long chains of proteins and sugars. These biomolecules are essential for supporting life. In humans, genetics and metabolism can change the structure of these molecules, leading to disease. For microorganisms including fungi and bacteria, the cell wall provides structural integrity. Thus, studying these extracellular biomolecules can lead to new methods of diagnosing and treating diseases and the development of new bioinspired materials. Ying has used solid-state NMR to study collagen in bone and cartilage during her PhD in the UK, and carried out postdoctoral research in Germany and France, focusing on solid-state NMR techniques and applications to biological materials. Her current research involves collaborations with the Warwick Medical School and UHCW.
Dr Deanne Coppejans (She/Her)
Deanne Coppejans is an Associate Professor at the University of Warwick, where she teaches and conducts research. Her research focus is using multi-wavelength observations to study the high-energy astrophysics of binary stars and stellar explosions. Deanne is originally from South Africa, and did her undergraduate and masters degrees in physics and astrophysics there. From there she went on to do a PhD in astrophysics in the Netherlands. Thereafter she moved to yet another continent, and did a 5 year postdoc in the United States. Since late 2021, she has been working at the University of Warwick.
Dr Rebecca Milot (She/Her)
Rebecca is an associate professor in the Ultrafast and THz Photonics group. Her research focuses on understanding ultrafast processes in materials for solar energy generation.
Dr Ingrid Pelisoli (She/Her)
I am a Royal Society University Research Fellow and Assistant Professor at the University of Warwick. I obtained my bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees in Physics at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, in Brazil, where I am originally from. During my doctorate, I obtained a scholarship to spend six months as a Visiting Academic at the University of Warwick. After completing my doctorate, I was a Research Fellow first at the University of Potsdam (Germany) and then at the University of Warwick, where I also briefly held a Prize Postdoctoral Fellowship before being awarded a Royal Society University Research Fellowship. My research is focused on white dwarf stars, the stellar fossils resulting from the evolution of stars like the Sun. I am also involved in teaching and in outreach, having given multiple talks for Astronomical Societies in the UK and volunteered in schools with Warwick’s inflatable planetarium.
Creativity in Research: Understanding the Big Picture through Art and Science
Science and art are both deeply human endeavours to understand and describe the world, each contributing to our collective knowledge through creativity. While they have enriched each other throughout history, integrating them within today’s university structures remains challenging. In this talk, I will share my journey as an interdisciplinary researcher bridging astrophysics, art, and social science. I will also discuss my research and practice in fostering creativity and inclusivity through art-science collaboration, highlighting how this approach accelerates new ideas and deepens our understanding of intangible astrophysical phenomena.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Dr Ulrike Kuchner (She/Her)
Ulrike Kuchner is an astrophysicist, artist, curator, and interdisciplinary researcher at the University of Nottingham. She co-founded the ARTlab Nottingham to integrate artistic methods into scientific research and studies art-science collaborations for mutual benefits and co-leads the international SEADS (Space Ecologies Art and Design) collective, known for its innovative, transdisciplinary projects. In her astrophysics research, Ulrike investigates how galaxies form and evolve as part of larger structures in the Universe. Her art practice and research delve into the artistic, social, and philosophical dimensions of scientific knowledge production, framing images and simulations as social constructs that challenge the concept of objective truths. This work sparks critical dialogue on the ethics and freedoms of art and science in uncertain times.
Refreshment break on the Physics concourse.
Medical Physics Talk
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Angharad Ganguli
Angharad is a HCPC-registered clinical scientist, working as a radiotherapy physicist in the NHS. She uses physics to treat cancer as part of a multi-disciplinary healthcare team. Her responsibilities include developing and optimising personalised radiotherapy treatment plans using high-energy radiation beams or internally placed radioactive sources. Angharad’s expertise include treatment planning, dose calculations and providing specialist advice to ensure precise and effective treatment delivery. Her role includes the calibration and quality assurance of radiation delivery systems to ensure the accuracy of the dose delivered to the tumour. Angharad holds an integrated master’s degree in Physics from the University of Warwick and a master’s degree in Medical Physics from King’s College London. Having completed the NHS Scientific Training Programme in 2021, Angharad has gained diverse clinical experience across several NHS hospitals and is currently based at University College London Hospital (UCLH).
Dr Jenny Spiga (She/Her)
Jenny is a medical physicist and project leader in spatially fractionated radiotherapy at the University of Loughborough, where she is part of the Applied Radiation and Medical Physics Group. She earned her Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Physics at the University of Cagliari, Italy, in collaboration with the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France. Her research focuses on translating preclinical Microbeam Radiation Therapy (Microbeam-RT) into clinical practice. To achieve this, Jenny has developed Monte Carlo simulations and conducted experimental dosimetric studies for preclinical irradiations. She is also investigating inverse Compton scattering sources, which offer a more compact and accessible alternative to synchrotrons for delivering Microbeam-RT. Additionally, her work explores the integration of dose enhancers in radiotherapy to optimize treatment efficacy. Jenny collaborates with leading facilities such as ThomX in France and STAR in Italy, as well as other international partners, to develop innovative technologies and protocols that pave the way for the safe and effective clinical application of Microbeam-RT in human patients.
Please meet your chosen tour group on the Physics concourse. Information will be provided on the day.
Option 1: University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire Medical Physics visit.
This tour group should arrive back on to the University campus at approx. 20.30.
Aaron Bedder
My name is Aaron Bedder and I am a Principal Clinical Scientist working for the NHS with over 15 years’ experience in the field of radiotherapy physics. I have worked in all domains of radiotherapy physics, and my current specialism centres on research and development including clinical trials. As part of my role I act as a medical physics expert, using my knowledge, training and experience to ensure the delivery of a high quality and safe therapeutic service.
I graduated from the University of Warwick in 2009 with a degree in physics, and have since obtained a master’s degree from the University of Leeds in medical physics and a PhD qualification from the University of Manchester as a Doctor of Clinical Science.
Option 2: Tour of The Marsh Observatory and Planetarium Show
Participants will be given a tour of The Marsh Observatory, Warwick's on-campus observing facility. Weather permitting, there will be a demonstration of our 40-cm telescope in action. The tour will also include a show in Warwick's inflatable planetarium and a taster session with the stellar evolution table, an interactive screen that teaches about the life cycle of stars through a fun game.
This session will be led by members of the Astronomy and Astrophysics Outreach team.
There may be an opportunity for night-time observing at The Marsh Observatory but this will be weather dependent.
There will be 30 minute slots available with a limited capacity, more information will be provided on the day of how to sign up.
Tuesday 8th April
Introduction from conference day lead, Ally Caldecote. Ally will explain how the schedule will run for the day, signpost to any specific areas of the building and any health and safety requirements.
Tour information to be provided.
Media and Communications.
Rosie will explain why it’s so important for scientists to get involved with the media, and give practical tips on communicating your research in an accessible way. She’ll offer insight into how journalism works, and use examples of good practice to demonstrate how to get across your message to a variety of audiences.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre
Rosie Eaton (She/Her)
Rosie is a Broadcast Journalist with nearly 20 years’ experience in BBC Radio. She has worked as a presenter, producer, newsreader, reporter and researcher. She also teaches regularly on the University of Warwick’s Postgraduate Science Communication courses, and particularly values the opportunity to work with participants to improve their confidence, narrative and interview skills.
Refreshment break on the Physics concourse.
Option 1: Thrive - building confidence, resilience and agency
What is Thrive all about? This session is to support you in increasing your confidence, resilience and agency. You'll hear from a Warwick Physics student who attended the programme and what they gained from the programme. You'll have the opportunity to share insights and recommendations to support confidence, resilience and agency and tips with other students in the session.
Venue: B2.02
Marion Patel (She/Her)
Marion has spent the majority of her career in professional service roles within Higher/Further Education, most of those varied roles sharing an emphasis on the delivery of supportive and engaging student services or programmes. Most recently, following 2 years as Placements Officer within the School of Life Sciences, Marion has taken the role of Warwick Award Manager within Student Opportunity, where she is responsible for the delivery and strategic enhancement of the University's Warwick Award programme, the central Employability Skills provision for Warwick taught students. Marion has also delivered on Warwick's Thrive programme, primarily on the topics of Values, Boundaries and Assertive Communication since its pilot in 2022-23.
Option 2: Equity and Inclusivity Practices in Academia
In this session we will talk through some examples of systemic issues in academia. We will hold small group discussions of what inclusive practices could look like on an individual and systemic level and how to encourage their inclusion. We will share varied resources for equity and inclusivity and finally discuss what setting up an Equitea group has done for Astrophysics here at Warwick. The aim of this session is to focus on improvement, progress, and how individuals can make a positive difference.
Venue: B2.04/05
Equitea is a forum within the Astronomy and Astrophysics group to discuss topics related to equity, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) in relation to Astronomy, Physics and STEM as a whole. The forum was created by PhD students in January 2021, inspired by asimilar initiativeLink opens in a new windowLink opens in a new windowat the University of Michigan. It was created with the goal of fostering a more inclusive space for all staff and students by encouraging conversations about the diversity of experiences of people in academia. Sessions have covered a wide range of topics, including but not limited to mental health, systemic barriers in academia, gender equality, ableism, LGBTQ+ issues, and many more.
Belonging: Finding your place as a physicist
Sometimes it can be hard to "find your place" in physics, especially when considering our intersecting identities as physicists. The Blackett Lab Family (BLF) are the UK collective for Black physicists with a mission to diversify perceptions and promote representation of physicists. During this interactive session with members of the BLF, you will hear from physicists who work both inside and outside of academia, their journeys exploring their own sense of belonging in the workplace, and you will be invited to imagine where you see your place after graduating.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Dr Yolanda Ohene (She/Her)
Dr Yolanda Ohene is a Fellow of the Wissenchaftkolleg zu Berlin(2024/205) and a Research Fellow in the Neuroimaging group at the University of Manchester. Yolanda got an MSci in Physics from Imperial College London (2013) and a PhD in Medical Imaging from UCL (2020). She was awarded the Institute of Physics Bronze medal in 2019 for outstanding contribution to physics by an early career researcher, for her work in the development of a new MRI technique for brain diseases. Outside of the lab, Yolanda is a science communicator and has spoken at the Royal Institution, Cambridge Theatre, London and at some of the biggest UK science events including Cheltenham Science Festival and the British Science Festival where she was a recipient of one of the British Science Festival Award Lectures(2021). Yolanda is one of the directors of The Blackett Lab Family and advocates for better equity in STEM fields. In her spare time, Yolanda loves going to dance and music concerts.
Kathryn Plummer (She/Her)
Kathryn Plummer studied MSci Physics at Imperial College, during which she attended CUWIP 2016 as an undergraduate. Kathryn graduated in 2019 and has since pursued a career as a European Patent Attorney. She initially specialised in obtaining patents, primarily for medical devices, at Carpmaels & Ransford before moving into licensing telecommunications patents using a mixture of SQL, MS Excel and persuasive writing at Bird & Bird. Kathryn’s career allows her to mix her interest in science with legal strategy and a bit of maths, and she enjoys its unpredictable nature. Outside of work, Kathryn also enjoys hosting book clubs, running and spending time with her family.
Melize Ferrus (Any/All)
Melize Ferrus is a PhD student at King's College London specializing in Gravitational Waves and Black Hole Mergers. Prior to starting postgraduate, they were a researcher at the Flatiron Institute in NYC in the same area of research. They completed their specialization of Physics at Concordia University, Montreal, where they received one of four Youth Medals from the government of Quebec for their work in outreach and leading their university's aerospace engineering society. They also really love videogames and comedy shows.
ICWiP - The landscape for women in physics
In this session Chethana will provide an overview of the ICWiP team, the conference, organisers and aims. Chethana will discuss the UK 2023 ICWiP presentation and the landscape for women in physics in the UK, sharing reflections and takeaways from the international conference, including learned experiences of women in physics from different countries.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Chethana Setty (She/Her)
Chethana is currently studying Physics as an undergraduate at The Open University. She channelled her passion for science through a career as a medical doctor and is now focused on broadening those scientific horizons into Physics. Chethana is an advocate of better representation in STEM careers and so was honoured to be selected as an undergraduate member of the UK delegation to ICWiP in 2023.
A short introduction by Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell.
A group conference photograph will be taken. For those that do not wish to be included in the photograph, there will be an opportunity to move following the talk.
A cold buffet lunch will be served on the Physics concourse.
A variety of activities will be available for people to join this afternoon including tours of our facilities, having a professional headshot taken, and networking with fellow delegates and exhibition stands. More information will be provided on the day.
Exhibition stands:
Matthew Lovell
IOP, Members Operation Manager
Matthew joined the Institute of Physics as Member Operations Manager in December 2024. A large part of Matthew's role is member recruitment and retention. Since joining the IOP Matthew has focused on raising the awareness of the benefits of IOP membership. This has included monthly webinars, production of a Top 10 Tips guide and attendance at conferences and events.
If you are interested in finding out more about the IOP, what being a member of the IOP could mean for you and the benefits of membership please ensure to reach out to Matthew during the conference.
Laurence will present what it is like to be a beamline scientist at the European Synchrotron (ESRF), what skills are required to become a researcher and show examples of a day in the life of a female scientist at the ESRF.
Florence Legg
Post Doctoral Research Assistant, XMaS
Following my A-levels I studied an integrated masters in Chemical Engineering at the University of Nottingham. My undergraduate degree included an industrial year, where I worked in engineering consultancy with Sellafield Ltd. This position initiated my interest in nuclear based science. Following this I started a PhD at the University of Bristol in Physics, where I investigated the reactive properties of uranium containing materials for nuclear fuel applications. My PhD was part of the Nuclear Energy Futures Centre for Doctoral Training, allowing me to maintain my interest in the nuclear industry. I have recently started as a postdoctoral research associate at the XMaS beamline at the ESRF, as part of the University of Liverpool.
Tours:
Physics 1: Particle physics and ultrafast spectroscopy
Physics 2: Electron microscopy and THz imaging
Millburn House: NMR and laser labs
WMG: Electron microscopy, nanoindentation lab, and hot works lab
Additional Information
Access: All labs are generally accessible to wheelchair users and people with mobility impairments, and there is lift access in the buildings. However, space might be tight inside specific areas, restricting some views for wheelchair users. The tours are continuous walking tours with a duration of ~1 hour, and Millburn house and WMG are a ~15 min. walk from the main physics building where the majority of conference activities will take place. Seating may be available inside the labs but cannot be guaranteed. Please contact the conference organizers if you have any questions about accessibility.
Safety: In the NMR hall, you will be exposed to a magnetic field that is higher than the earth's magnetic field. Although higher, it is small compared to any exposure if you have ever had an MRI scan in a hospital, and we will make sure to keep exposure to a minimum. If you have hearing aids, a heart pacemaker, or another medical implant such as a permanent insulin pump for diabetes, the field may interfere with the device. If you have any questions, please contact the conference organisers.
Suggested dress: Formal wear / Semi-formal
Transport: Meet at 6.10pm at The PiazzaLink opens in a new window. The coach will leave from Car Park P19 (also known as Bluebell Coach Park) promptly at 6.30pm
Venue: St Mary's GuildhallLink opens in a new window
Dinner Menu:
Starter: Butternut & Sweet Potato Soup with Paprika Crème Fraiche
Main: Roasted Chicken Supreme with Potato Gratin, Shredded Leek & Fine Green Bean Panache and Wild Mushrooms & Madeira Sauce
OR
Poached Potato Gnocchi with Plant Based Creamy Wild Mushroom & Leek Sauce Micro Herbs (VE & GF)
Dessert: Salt Caramel Brownie with Plant Based Cherry Mousse & Black Cherries (VE & GF)
Tea, Coffee and Chocolate Mints
Drinks: Juice, Wine and Water on tables. Further drinks can be purchased from the bar.
The coach will leave from the same location as you were dropped off near St Mary's Guildhall at 10pm (tbc) to return back to campus. Please advise if you plan to make your own way back.
Wednesday 9th April
There will be a room to drop your luggage at the Physics concourse. Head to parallel sessions. Our staff and student ambassadors will direct you to the correct breakout rooms.
Option 1: A day in the life of a PhD student
Venue: B2.02
Geraldine is currently in her final year of PhD studies in the Centre for Doctoral Training in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems (HetSys) at the University of Warwick. Prior to pursuing a PhD, she received her MSc in Nanotechnology and BSc in Mechanical Engineering from the American University in Cairo, Egypt. Her current research focuses on the modelling of the deformation behaviour of Ni-based superalloys using atomistic simulations. Passionate about education, she has participated in a number of teaching activities since receiving her BSc. Geraldine also volunteers with Coding with Sophie, an award-winning outreach program, where she teaches children foundational coding skills and carries out various physics-based activities. Geraldine is eager to share her experiences and insights into pursuing a PhD as a woman in physics.
I am a final year PhD student in the condensed matter physics cluster at Warwick. My research focuses on strain engineering of materials using ferroelastic domains in order to investigate the effect on electrical properties, and previously I studied strain engineering in semiconductors. I am also one of the EDI officers on the postgraduate committee.
I am a PhD student in the Astronomy research group at the University of Warwick, studying the origins of planetary systems like our Solar System through the use of computational modelling. I completed my BSc in Physics at Imperial College London and worked as a software developer for 2 years before returning to university to do a PhD and pursue my interest in scientific research. Aside from my research, I am very interested in how academic institutions can be made more inclusive spaces to ensure that everyone has equal access to Physics and STEM as a whole.
Mairi is a fourth-year PhD student in the astronomy and astrophysics group at Warwick. Her work uses the nearby population of white dwarf stars to understand the evolution and properties of stars and planets. She uses telescopes such as Gaia, Hubble and the VLT to observe these nearby white dwarfs. Outside of her PhD work, she enjoys participating in outreach events including teaching coding to primary school children.
I completed my Masters in Astrophysics at the University of Edinburgh and moved here to Warwick to begin my PhD last year. I study white dwarfs and am currently creating a simulation of local white dwarfs to investigate the star formation history of the Milky Way.
I am a 4th year PhD student in the Diamond research group at the University of Warwick. I graduated with an MPhys from the University of Leicester in 2021, where I focused mostly on theoretical condensed matter physics. I then transitioned to experimental physics for my PhD. My current research investigates the properties of the nitrogen-vacancy centre; a point defect in diamond, whose ground state spin levels can be used as a qubit for quantum computing. My goal is to develop methods of increasing the spin lifetimes of these defects, as well as optically and electronically reading out their spin states.
Hi! I’m Rebecca, a third-year PhD student studying magnetohydrodynamic seismology in the solar corona with a focus on slow magnetoacoustic waves. My research involves analysing observational data from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory and ESA’s Solar Orbiter to infer key parameters about the Sun’s corona. Before starting my PhD, I completed a master’s degree in Maths and Physics at the University of Warwick, followed by a PGCE in Secondary Science Education. I then worked as a secondary school teacher for two years. I realised that I missed intellectual challenges of academia and this led me back to Warwick, where I’m now pursuing my PhD.
Option 2: A career in teaching
Venue: B2.04/.05
Amanda Poole is a teaching and learning coach for The Ogden Trust, a charitable trust that supports physics education. With over 25 years experience in the classroom as a secondary physics teacher and later as a primary science specialist teacher, she now works to support teachers through the design and implementation of high quality physics education CPD and resources. Currently finishing a PhD study in primary science education, she also actively participates in science education research and is co-author of The 10 Key Issues with children's learning in primary science and Being Focused: Monitoring the 10 Key Issues to improve children's learning experiences in primary science.
Refreshment break with Physics postgraduate students from the University of Warwick.
Option 1 - Big data and AI in particle physics
Modern scientific experiments produce an unprecedented volume of data; this has necessitated a rapid evolution in our approach to analysing such datasets. This pair of interactive discussions will introduce some of the challenges the scientific communities face, using examples from the field of particle physics. The role of machine learning to perform data analysis will be introduced, looking at the specific example of artificial neural networks and their role interpreting data recorded by the latest generation of particle imaging detectors.
Venue: B2.02
Dr. Nicole Skidmore is an assistant professor at the University of Warwick. She works on the LHCb experiment at CERN and her research involves studying anomalous b-meson decays as a probe of physics beyond the Standard Model and computing in “big-science”. Outside of LHCb she enjoys exploring the peak district with her dog Muon.
Dr. John Marshall is an associate professor at the University of Warwick and his field of research is neutrino physics. Neutrinos are the most abundant massive particles in the universe, but their masses are so tiny they have never been precisely measured. Neutrinos very rarely interact, as they couple only to the weak interaction (and gravity): there are tens of trillions streaming harmlessly through our bodies every second, and it would typically require about 10 light years of lead to stop a 1MeV neutrino. This makes studying neutrinos challenging! Neutrino physicists now use intense beams of neutrinos, manufactured at accelerator complexes, and large detectors. Dr. Marshall’s main area of interest is the development and use of particle imaging detectors, which deliver “photograph-quality” pictures of the charged particles that emerge when a neutrino interacts in the detector. The images can be extremely complex, with multiple overlapping particles. Dr. Marshall and his team use advanced pattern-recognition and machine-learning techniques, including deep neural networks, to “reconstruct” what exactly happened in each neutrino interaction.
Option 2: Physics outreach
Not only is outreach brilliant fun, but it can benefit those who deliver as well as those who receive! Hear from two experienced outreachers, Ally Caldecote and Professor Rachel Edwards about all of the different ways you could get involved and all of the things you can learn - some you might expect, some you won't!
Venue: B2.04/05
Ally Caldecote is a former secondary school and sixth form physics teacher with experience in college leadership, both pastorally and academic support. She now works at the University of Warwick leading the Department of Physics' Outreach work. She visits schools, colleges, prisons and pupil referral units as well as science festivals and other events. She is responsible for organising school visits to the department for students to get a taste of the university environment. She is passionate about widening participation and welcoming all people to study physics.
Rachel Edwards is a Professor of Physics at the University of Warwick, and Faculty Public Engagement Lead for SEM with the Warwick Institute of Engagement, giving her a split role in physics research and public engagement. Her research covers applications of ultrasound in physics and engineering, using it for diverse measurements such as identifying cracks in railway tracks, and measuring the properties of new magnetic materials. Rachel has travelled the world playing with the world’s strongest magnets, and loves talking about roller coasters (although not going on them). She teaches condensed matter physics (materials physics) and electronics, and assists with modules on the science of music, and on public engagement.
Personal branding - What it is and why it is so important
Throughout this session we will cover understanding how you present yourself, in person and online; how to consider reputation as a 'brand'; what your core values and motivations are; how to build your personal brand; and explore visibility and its importance for women.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Ali Collins (She/Her)
Ali is Head of Careers at Warwick. Before that she was a Careers Manager at Warwick Business School for ten years. She has a particular interest in careers and personal development for female and non-binary students and is a mentor for the Thrive™ women’s development programme and is part of the Inspiring Women Series organising team at Warwick.
Siobhan Qadir
(She/Her)
Senior Careers Consultant working in Psychology and WMG. International Guidance team lead for International guidance. Neurodivergent. Previously, I was a trainer on the Sprint female development programme and co-creator of Thrive.
Kelly Coles (She/Her)
Kelly is the Senior Careers Consultant for Warwick Medical School and has supported Health and Life Sciences students for over 8 years with their career planning.
Supporting student led initiatives and working on co-create projects with students to shape and deliver activities for personal and professional development is a key area of interest, and also is a keen advocate on the use of strengths profiles.
Jo Pearson (She/Her)
Jo Pearson is the Senior Careers Consultant for the School of Life Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Department of Education Studies and Centre for Lifelong Learning. She works with departments to embed employability through group activities within and alongside the curriculum, as well as offering individual careers guidance. She is also an accredited Strengths Practitioner.
Samantha Merrix
(She/Her)
Senior Careers Consultant for the Computer Science and the School of Engineering.
Experienced Higher Education careers professional with a demonstrated history of increasing student engagement with careers activity and enabling students to achieve desired career outcomes. Interest in tech-based careers and supporting widening participation and diversity.
A brief overview of CUWiP+ over the last 10 years, a discussion of its future and how you can help/be involved in it's evolution
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre (PLT)
Dr June McCombie (She/Her)
Dr June McCombie MBE FInstP FRAS FRSC - Chair CUWiP+
In broad research terms June can be described as an experimental laser spectroscopist who moved onto astrophysical chemistry.
Her UG degree and Phd were both from Bristol University in the UK. Her early career included positions in France, Canada and the U.S She has held visiting professorships at the University of Warwick (UK) and the University of Canterbury, Christchurch (NZ).
She is now an Honorary Fellow of the University of Nottingham and was awarded an MBE for Services to Science in 2013 and then the Institute of Physics Phillips Award in 2023. She has worked with several professional STEM institutions on diversity and public engagement programs both in the UK and internationally and has been a trustee on related charity boards and acted as chair of advisory groups.
Talk by Prof. Pam Thomas:
The wonderful thing about Tiggers is…..I’m not the only one!
A personal reflection on one woman’s career in the world of Physics
Closing of the conference.
Venue: Physics Lecture Theatre.
Professor Caroline Meyer (She/Her)
Professor Caroline Meyer is responsible for academic leadership of the research portfolio and strategy at the University of Warwick. Caroline has been instrumental in supporting and maintaining Warwick’s research excellence and has pioneered the launch of the National Centre for Research Culture and the new Warwick Research Spotlights. She is supported by a Research Executive team which includes the Director of Research and Impact Services.
Caroline was previously Vice-Provost and Chair of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine. Caroline has a PhD in Eating Disorders from The University of Southampton. She was Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Birmingham and then worked in the Department of Psychology at Warwick and Warwick Medical School.
Caroline returned to Warwick in 2014, having been a Reader and then Professor at Loughborough University. Her research is predominantly within two key areas eating disorders and workforce mental health and productivity. Her work involves many external partner organisations, including the NHS, industry partners and schools both nationally and internationally.
Prof. Pam Thomas (She/Her)
Professor Pam A. Thomas has been a member of the Department of Physics at the University of Warwick since March 1990. She was educated at Jesus College, University of Oxford, where she undertook her BA in Physics (1983) and her DPhil (1987) on Optical Activity in Crystals at the Clarendon Laboratory. Pam followed this with a three-year EPSRC-funded PDRA position, during which time, she started to work on the nonlinear optical material potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP), which area of research was internationally highly active at the time and in which she had some success.
Pam was appointed as a Lecturer in Physics at Warwick (1990) and then proceeded to build up a new group working on the structure and properties of ferroelectric and nonlinear optical crystals, the “Ferroelectric Crystallography Group”, which became part of the Condensed Matter Physics Group in the Department. Pam’s research required state-of-the-art x-ray diffraction equipment and it became her mission to obtain the funds for this infrastructure to deploy in her research. She won an EPSRC grant for her first high-resolution diffractometer in 1996 and continued on to acquire a suite of 7 instruments, including amalgamating together instruments from Physics and Chemistry into a common facility. Working with the university, she ultimately transformed this into the inaugural Research Technology Platform (RTP) in 2014, of which she was the first director with former PhD students of hers now being the leading professional staff (Dr David Walker, Dr Steven Huband).
Pam has had a number of different posts in addition to her academic role at Warwick. She was the inaugural Director 2009-2011 of the Science City Research Alliance, a major HEFCE-funded research programme for the universities of Birmingham and Warwick. She also oversaw and managed the investment of £57M from regional and European funding agencies into research infrastructure under the Science Cities initiative. She followed this by a period as Chair of the Faculty of Science from 2011-2015, providing over-arching academic leadership to the 9 Departments in the Faculty. She was appointed as a Pro Vice-Chancellor (PVC) from December 2014, then becoming PVC for Research from 2016 to 2021 during which time, she was also a member of the university’s Executive Committee. She was the first female appointee as Chair of the Faculty of Science and PVC for Research as well as the first female Professor in experimental physics at Warwick. She led the university’s silver Athena-Swan renewal (2018) and inaugurated and chaired the Race Equality Task Force (2015-2019). From 2021-2024, she served as Academic Vice President for Social Inclusion, chairing the university’s Social Inclusion Committee.
In 2020, Pam was appointed to the CEO position of the Faraday Institution, the UK’s national organisation, on for battery science and technology, which she then led until April 2024 having succeeded in increasing and sustaining funding levels and more than doubling the number of staff to support a truly expert mission-driven research leadership organisation. Her other activities in the scientific community have been numerous and include work for the Institute of Physics, the Crystallographic Associations in the UK and Europe, the Science and Technologies Facilities Council (STFC) for which she was a council member from 2021-2025, the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Royal Academy of Engineering amongst others.
A packed lunch will be provided for delegates to collect and depart.
Venue: Physics concourse