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The Spring Conference is IOP Ireland’s annual member event organised by the Institute of Physics (IOP). The 2026 conference will shine a light on CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research. With Ireland becoming an associate member of CERN, the nation is poised to assume a significant role in this world-leading research project. The conference will include the Rosse Medal Science Communication Competition, invited talks, a panel discussion, networking opportunities, and an evening dinner on the Friday. The event will be held in Waterford on 27–28 February. It is ticketed and open to all members of the physics community and further afield.

Postgraduate students are warmly invited to celebrate their research by entering the Rosse Medal Science Communication Competition. We will be inviting Rosse Medal entrants to display their posters across the two days. Posters are welcome from all areas of physics. The competition is judged and will involve students engaging with the judges to communicate their research. The top 5 entrants are then invited to present their poster and a short talk to the audience. The overall winner will be announced on Saturday afternoon. The winner of the Rosse Medal will progress to represent Ireland at the 3-Minute Wonder final (date TBC). Please note that the Rosse Medal is restricted to applicants from third level institutions in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Attendees can expect to hear from a range of engaging speakers from industry, academia, and further afield. We will also hear from the IOP Ireland Committee on objectives for 2026 and get an update from the IOP team on various campaigns and engagement opportunities.

We invite guests to join us on Friday 27 February from 1:30 pm. The conference will finish at 6 pm on Saturday 28 February. A number of hotels are available for those wishing to stay over, please see hotels tab for a selection of accommodation, including hostels.