The stage is set for a groundbreaking event in the world of physics, as undergraduate physicists from across Canada converge at the University of British Columbia (UBC) for a conference like no other.
The 13th annual Canadian Conference for Undergraduate Women and Gender Minorities in Physics (CCUW*iP) shone a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of women and gender minorities in the field. Airene Ahuja, a third-year physics and computer science student and co-chair of the event, passionately shared her vision for the conference: to create a safe haven where these underrepresented groups can be celebrated and empowered. And what a powerful experience it was for all involved!
But here's where it gets controversial: while the conference aimed to foster inclusivity, co-chair Jenny Zhu and Ahuja had differing views on the focus. Zhu, a fifth-year physics student, emphasized the need for more equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) conversations within the department, but Ahuja suggested that the team's achievements should take center stage. And this is the part most people miss—the delicate balance between acknowledging the challenges and celebrating the victories.
The conference offered a rich tapestry of workshops and sessions. Attendees delved into the mysteries of quantum computing with Fiona Thompson from the University of Waterloo's Institute for Quantum Computing. They explored postgraduate pathways and honed their scientific communication skills. But the excitement didn't stop there! Delegates embarked on tours of TRIUMF, Canada's particle accelerator facility, and the Quantum Matter Institute (QMI), where they witnessed cutting-edge research on superconductivity and quantum materials.
The conference kicked off with an inspiring keynote from experimental physicist Ashley Nicole Warner, who shared her unique journey from theatre major to quantum computing expert. Warner's speech set the tone for the conference's commitment to embracing diverse backgrounds in physics. And the learning didn't stop there—the first day featured lectures by Dr. Stephanie Simmons and Dr. Nancy Forde, who captivated attendees with their insights into quantum computing and biophysics, respectively.
But the conference wasn't just about intellectual stimulation; it also prioritized accessibility. Zhu emphasized the importance of affordability, noting that conferences are often financially out of reach for undergraduate students. CCUW*iP 2026 offered in-person attendees an incredibly reasonable fee of $60, covering meals and accommodations for 90 of the 107 in-person delegates. This inclusive approach is a refreshing change, and Zhu hopes it will inspire similar initiatives across various fields.
The second day took attendees on a cosmic journey. Dr. Sabrina Pasterski, a rising star in the physics world, shared her team's research on space-time, gravity, and a unified theory of the universe. UBC's own Dr. Allison Man and Dr. Gwen Grinyer from the University of Regina captivated audiences with their talks on cosmic time, star formation, and rare isotopes. But the highlight for many was the student research session, where over 80 projects showcased the incredible diversity of topics, from astrophysics to medical physics.
Kaylee Bains, vice-chair of external relations, highlighted the conference's impact on community-building. For students who have felt like outsiders in physics, CCUW*iP offered a sense of belonging and connection. Bains' words resonate with anyone who has ever felt isolated in their academic pursuits.
The final day of the conference explored the practical applications of physics. UBC's Dr. Lindsey Heagy, UVic's Dr. Magdalena Bazalova-Carter, and UBC's Dr. Ingrid Stairs shared their expertise in geophysics, medical physics, and pulsars, respectively. But the day's highlight was an interactive session on impostor syndrome and EDI, where attendees were encouraged to challenge the language used to describe minorities in challenging environments. Dr. Adele Ruosi suggested that the term 'resilience' can be harmful, placing undue pressure on individuals to endure hostile environments. Instead, she proposed 'persistence' as a more empowering alternative.
As the conference drew to a close, the co-chairs encouraged attendees to consider hosting CCUW*iP at their universities, fostering a nationwide dialogue on EDI. This event not only celebrated the achievements of women and gender minorities in physics but also sparked conversations about creating inclusive environments in academia. So, what do you think? Is it time for a paradigm shift in how we approach diversity in STEM fields? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
