IUPAP logo
IUPAP logo

“To assist in the worldwide development of physics, to foster international cooperation in physics, and to help in the application of physics toward solving problems of concern to humanity”.

The International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) was established in 1922 in Brussels with 13 Member countries and the first General Assembly was held in 1923 in Paris.

The aims of the Union are:

  • to stimulate and promote international cooperation in physics;
  • to sponsor suitable international meetings and to assist organizing committees;
  • to foster the preparation and the publication of abstracts of papers and tables of physical constants;
  • to promote international agreements on other use of symbols, units, nomenclature and standards;
  • to foster free circulation of scientists;
  • to encourage research and education.

As one of the basic sciences, physics relates to all branches of natural science. Many of the most exciting developments take place in the border areas between different disciplines. To cover interdisciplinary activities IUPAP maintains close liaison with several of the other Unions. In some cases this collaboration is manifested in the form of associate members of IUPAP Commissions. The Union also participates in many of the ISC Inter-Union Commissions and global projects.

The Union is composed of members representing identified physics communities. At present 60 members adhere to IUPAP.

  • President: Michel Spiro
  • Past President: Bruce McKellar
  • Secretary General: Kok Khoo Phua
  • Associate Secretary General: Rudzani Nemutudi
  • Deputy Secretary General: Kwek Leong Chuan

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