UBC Hosts CCUW*iP 2026: Undergraduate Physicists Convene
The University of British Columbia (UBC) successfully hosted the 13th annual Canadian Conference for Undergraduate Women and Gender Minorities in Physics, known as CCUW*iP 2026. This pivotal event took place from January 30 to February 1, 2026, attracting participants from various regions across Canada.
CCUW*iP 2026: Advancing Inclusivity in Physics
CCUW*iP 2026 served as a vital platform aimed at fostering an inclusive environment for women and gender minorities in the physics community. Despite the historical barriers faced in this field, the event focused on providing support and opportunities for empowerment.
Leadership and Organization
Airene Ahuja and Jenny Zhu were the co-chairs of CCUW*iP 2026. They led a dedicated team committed to ensuring the conference’s success and inclusivity.
Key Highlights of the Conference
- Workshops and Panels: The conference agenda included essential topics like quantum computing and postgraduate pathways.
- Notable Speakers: Ashley Nicole Warner from D-Wave delivered insights on quantum annealing, capturing the audience’s attention.
- Facility Tours: Participants had the opportunity to explore significant physics facilities at UBC, enhancing their practical understanding of the discipline.
Workshops and Learning Opportunities
A variety of practical workshops enriched the CCUW*iP 2026 experience. Some notable sessions featured:
- A discussion on quantum computing by Fiona Thompson from the Institute for Quantum Computing.
- A research showcase displaying over 80 projects across various physics topics.
Attendees appreciated the strong sense of community, particularly those transitioning into physics from other academic backgrounds.
Affordability and Accessibility
To promote financial accessibility, the registration fee for CCUW*iP 2026 was set at an affordable $60. As a result, organizers could accommodate 90 out of 107 participants. For contrast, the Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference (CUPC) had a registration fee of $150 per attendee in 2024, underscoring CCUW*iP’s commitment to inclusivity.
Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives
In the closing remarks, conference leaders encouraged attendees to consider hosting future events. The discussions emphasized equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), paving the way for ongoing dialogues among universities. Overall, CCUW*iP 2026 not only honored the accomplishments of undergraduate women and gender minorities in physics but also established a foundation for future collaboration and discussions within the scientific community.
