The University of British Columbia (UBC) recently hosted the 13th annual Canadian Conference for Undergraduate Women and Gender Minorities in Physics (CCUW*iP). The event took place from January 30 to February 1, 2026, and gathered participants from across Canada. This year’s conference aimed to create an inclusive atmosphere for women and gender minorities, who have often faced barriers in the field of physics.
Key Highlights of CCUW*iP 2026
- Co-chairs: Airene Ahuja and Jenny Zhu led the organizing team.
- Workshops and Panels: Topics included quantum computing and postgraduate pathways.
- Notable Speakers: Ashley Nicole Warner from D-Wave discussed quantum annealing.
- Excursions: Attendees toured major physics facilities at UBC.
Focus on Inclusivity
Co-chair Airene Ahuja emphasized the importance of recognizing historically marginalized groups in physics. The conference served as a platform to highlight their contributions and experiences in the field.
Workshops and Learning Opportunities
The conference offered numerous workshops that centered on practical applications in physics. Notable sessions included:
- A talk on quantum computing by Fiona Thompson from the Institute for Quantum Computing.
- A student research session showcasing over 80 projects on diverse topics.
Attendees reported a strong sense of community, providing a welcoming environment for those transitioning into physics from different fields.
Affordability and Accessibility
The registration fee for CCUW*iP 2026 was set at $60. This initiative allowed the organizers to cover accommodations for 90 out of 107 participants. The event aimed to be financially accessible for students, contrasting sharply with other conferences, such as the Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference (CUPC), which charged $150 per attendee in 2024.
Closing Thoughts and Future Initiatives
The closing remarks were filled with encouragement for attendees to consider hosting future conferences. The emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) was a recurring theme, with hopes of fostering inclusive dialogue across universities.
Overall, CCUW*iP 2026 not only celebrated the accomplishments of undergraduate women and gender minorities in physics but also inspired future collaborations and discussions in the field.
