About this day
For A-level, IB, BTEC Level 3 and T Level physics students
Join us at Physics in Action this autumn for an inspiring day that takes physics beyond the classroom. Top physicists and expert communicators will share their passion and insight across a range of exciting topics, showing students where physics can take them — in study, research, and future careers.
The day also includes a special session on exam success, giving students practical tools and tips to help them excel. With polls, quizzes, and opportunities to put questions directly to the speakers, Physics in Action is a must for all KS5 physics students. Book now to secure your places!
Host: Greg Foot (Science Journalist and Podcaster) Exam Session: Lewis Matheson, Physics Online
“Enjoyable, entertaining, interesting and thought provoking”
— Rugby School, Autumn 2025 —
Programme & speakers
Our Quantum Future Jess Wade, Materials Scientist, Imperial College London
Imagine mobile phones with batteries that can last for days or low-powered sensors that map brain activity. From solar fuel cells to quantum devices, tomorrow’s tech depends on advances in materials science and engineering. Jess explores how molecular properties like chirality can control electrons and photons, unlocking new possibilities in electronics, spintronics, and beyond.
About Dr Jess Wade
Jess is a materials scientist at Imperial College London where she studies chiral carbon-based semiconductors. She is a science communicator committed to improving diversity in science, both online and offline.
Body × Movement = Thrill Brendan Walker, Founder Director of Thrill Laboratory and Professor of Creative Industries at Middlesex University
What makes a rollercoaster thrilling — and how do engineers design that feeling? Join thrill engineer Brendan Walker as he unpacks the physics behind G-force, motion, and excitement. From the first loop-the-loop coasters with nurses on standby to the delights that a simulator’s six degrees of micro-motion can bring to future rides. Hold on to your seats – things are about to get interesting!
About Professor Brendan Walker
Brendan Walker is a Renaissance Showman – a technology-inspired performance artist described by The Times as “the world’s only Thrill Engineer”. He originally trained and worked as an aeronautical engineer, before practicing as a digital artist and ride designer. He is Professor of Creative Industries at Middlesex University and an established TV broadcaster.
Shedding Light on the Brain Clare Elwell, Professor of Medical Physics, University College London
Innovative optical techniques are illuminating our understanding of the human brain. Discover how we are gaining new insights into autism and how we performed the first brain imaging of infants in Africa.
About Professor Clare Elwell
Clare Elwell is Professor of Medical Physics at UCL. She leads a large research team developing novel optical techniques to image the brain.
Pathways to Physics: a Panel Discussion Greg Foot and our Panellists
Science journalist Greg Foot will engage in captivating conversations with two physics professionals in this inspiring, career-focussed panel session. These scientists are at the start of their careers and keen to share their passion for science and excitement for the future with your students.
About Greg Foot and our Panellists
Science journalist Greg Foot will host a panel of early-career science, each bringing their unique journey and insight into the world of science. The panellists for this exciting session will be announced soon.
The Accidental Materials Scientist Anna Ploszajski, Materials Scientist, Writer and Storyteller
This is the story of an accidental materials scientist; accidentally studying materials science instead of physics at university, accidentally breaking stuff, accidentally leaving a microscope slide on a shelf for nine months and making a huge accidental discovery. My dad always tells me ‘you make your own luck’, but what if it all just happened by accident?
About Dr Anna Ploszajski
Anna Ploszajski is a materials scientist, author, presenter and science comedian who is on a mission to get people fascinated by the ordinary stuff which makes up the world around us. Her book Handmade tells the story of materials through their use in arts and crafts.