Behind the scenes of CUWiP Glasgow 2022: lessons for building inclusive conferences

In April 2022, the Universities of Glasgow and Strathclyde co-hosted the Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics (CUWiP) UK & Ireland, welcoming 92 participants and 27 speakers. Our aim was to create an inclusive and empowering environment where undergraduates identifying as women or non-binary could explore career pathways, connect with role models, and build confidence in their future in physics.

This talk will share reflections on the Glasgow experience: from our deliberate approach to equity, diversity and inclusion — including provisions for students observing Ramadan, explicit inclusion of non-binary participants, and targeted outreach to under-represented groups — through to programme innovations such as a careers job fair, co-delivery by two universities, and social events designed to build community. I will highlight outcomes from the evaluation, including measurable shifts in participants’ self-identification as physicists and their confidence in pursuing physics careers.

Finally, I will discuss lessons learned for future organisers and the continuing importance of CUWiP in challenging stereotypes, strengthening belonging, and supporting the next generation of physicists.