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Student applications open
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RP2026 Manchester!
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RP2026 Online!
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RP2026 London!
REPRESENTING
PHYSICS
2026
Welcome!
Representing Physics just got BIGGER!
We are proud and excited to be launching the comeback of our physics summer experience for Year 11 and Year 12 students of Black heritage!
As a network of UK based Black physicists, we are passionate about increasing Black representation and sharing the many cool and lucrative opportunities that physics at school and beyond can offer you!
That's why we are linking up once again this summer with several world-leading institutions to bring you an immersive physics experience like no other!
This year, we're bringing to you three summer programmes: RP2026 Manchester, RP2026 London and RP2026 Online – all totally free to attend! Find out more below!
What, where & when?
RP2026 Manchester
RP2026 Manchester is a two-day, in-person programme hosted by us at The University of Manchester on Monday 4 August 2026 & Tuesday 5 August 2026. This is a non-residential programme, which means you will need to arrange your own travel between your home and The University of Manchester on both days.
+ A taster of the undergraduate experience
That's right! Get a feel for what it's like to be a physics undergraduate at university: lectures, lab experiments and everything in-between.
+ Physics & Artificial Intelligence
Through interactive sessions and demonstrations, you'll explore how physicists use AI to investigate real-world problems and why diverse perspectives are essential to ensure that technologies are developed ethically and inclusively.
+ Explore physics & identity
We’ll explore and reflect on Black identity in physics, highlighting the contributions of Black physicists and discussing the importance of representation and community in the field.
RP2026 London
RP2026 London is a three-day, in-person programme hosted by us across three London-based institutions: The Blackett Laboratory, National Physical Laboratory and Institute of Physics from Monday 17 August 2026 - Wednesday 19 August 2026. This is a non-residential programme, which means that you will need to be able to arrange your own travel between your home, the Blackett Laboratory (Physics department) at Imperial College London on Monday and Tuesday, and The Institute of Physics and Wednesday.
+ Taster of the undergraduate experience
That's right! You'll get a feel for what it's like to be a physics undergraduate at university: lectures, experiments in labs and everything in-between.
+ Witness cutting edge science
We've got a you behind the scenes access to the National Physical Laboratory where you will meet scientists and observe cutting-edge science in fields like environmental and medical physics.
+ Explore physics & identity
We'll explore and reflect on Black identity in physics, and lead your discovery of Black British physicists and their contributions at the home of the Institute of Physics.
+ Physics & Artificial Intelligence
Through interactive sessions and demonstrations, you'll explore how physicists use AI to investigate real-world problems and why diverse perspectives are essential to ensure that technologies are developed ethically and inclusively.
RP2026 Online
RP2026 Online will be hosted by us on the video platform Google Meet and will be taking place on Monday 10 August 2026. That means you will only need a mobile phone, tablet or computer with internet access to take part, and so this programme is open to applicants across the UK.
+ Lectures by leading researchers
That means learning about cool physics topics like quantum mechanics, medical physics and general relativity from leading researchers in their fields.
+ Networking with Black physicists and professionals
Chat away and hear about the wonderful experiences Black physicists who are active researchers in the field as well as those who have branched out into other fields such as finance, law and music.
+ Physics & Artificial Intelligence
You’ll explore how physicists use AI to investigate real-world problems and why diverse perspectives are essential in ensuring these technologies are developed ethically and inclusively.
Am I eligible?
We recognise the fact that people of Black-heritage are severely underrepresented among those studying physics and physics-related subjects, and working in physics-related fields. Our mission is to change that! Therefore, we encourage you to apply if you are:
- A student of Black or mixed-Black heritage
- In Year 11 or Year 12
We strongly recommend you apply even if you are not totally sure whether physics is right for you but want to know more before committing to your next steps!
What will I get?
An authentic experience
designed for us, by us
University, apprenticeship and career advice
provided by experts
A chance to meet and vibe
with fellow and like-minded students
Great material
to add to your CV, cover letters and personal statement
How do I apply?
Click on the link below to apply for our programme.
Our application forms will ask you for:
- Personal and contact information
- Contact details for your parent / carer / guardian
- Your school and a nominated teacher
- Information about why you want to take part in our programme (150-200 words)
- Which programme you would like to apply for
Key dates
If you are interested in finding out about opportunities in the future, please sign up to our mailing list using the short survey below:
FAQs
Who are The Blackett Lab Family?
We are a network of UK based Black physicists. Our mission is to diversify perceptions of physics and promote Black representation at all levels in the field.
Who will be supervising the programme?
This year's programme will be led by Afiya Romain-Bains, Benyam Dejen and a dedicated team of trained, DBS-checked members who will supervise the students and oversee activities.
How much will it cost to attend the RP2026 programmes?
RP2026 is designed to be totally-free to attend. For attendees of RP2026 London and RP2026 Manchester, we will cover the costs of food during the day.
I have SEN, a disability or a medical condition, can I take part?
We welcome students of all abilities, including those with additional needs, to apply to the programme. During registration, you will be able to tell us more about your needs so we can make the programme as safe and inclusive as possible.
I am not of Black-heritage, should I still apply?
The Representing Physics programmes are designed to encourage students of Black heritage - currently significantly underrepresented in the field – to consider pursuing a physics or physics-related course. If you are not of Black heritage, we encourage you to consider alternative summer schools and programmes if you are interested in physics.
I do not live in London, can I apply for RP2026 Online & London?
This is a non-residential programme, therefore your primary residence must be in London to be considered for RP2026 London, or Manchester for RP2026 Manchester. If you do not live in London but still meet the other eligiblility requirements, we encourage you to apply to RP2026 Online.
I am not in Year 11, Year 12 or equivalent, should I still apply?
RP2026 is designed for students who are currently (at the time of applying) in Year 11, Year 12 or equivalent. If you are not in either year group at the time of applying, we encourage you to consider alternative summer schools and programmes if you are interested in physics.
I can only attend part of RP2026 London or RP2026 Manchester, should I still apply?
RP2026 London and RP2026 Manchester are complementary programmes offering a range of experiences and opportunities to students of Black heritage interested in physics. We ask that you commit to attend all days of both programmes, otherwise consider applying to RP2026 Online only.
What if my application is successful?
You will receive confirmation by email about the outcome of your application and you'll recieve information about the registration process.
What if my application is unsuccessful?
You will receive confirmation by email about the outcome of your application. If unsuccessful, you will still have the opportunity to opt in to our mailing list with helpful resources and info about future events hosted by The Blackett Lab Family.
Can I join The Blackett Lab Family?
Our members have completed a post-16 qualification in physics or a physics related course. We encourage you to continue with physics so that you can join the crew too!
How can I contact The Blackett Lab Family about this programme?
We welcome questions or enquiries about Representing Physics 2026. You can get in touch with us at outreach@theblackettlabfamily.com.
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