Science for a shared future: Building bridges at the 2026 Global Physics Summit

Set against Denver’s mountain landscape, the 2026 Global Physics Summit brought together physicists from around the world under the theme, “Science for a shared future.” This theme was more than a meeting tagline; it reflected the essential work we do as physicists and the shared purpose that drives scientific progress.

As an APS international councilor, I have come to appreciate how deeply physics depends on a shared global enterprise of publications, conferences, collaboration, and open exchange. The questions we pursue are inherently complex, and many of the greatest challenges in physics require global investment, shared knowledge, and collective effort.

I see that clearly in my own research. As a neutron scattering scientist, I rely on international collaboration to carry out my research. I use neutron beams generated by reactors or particle accelerators to study the structure and dynamics of materials. I also frequently use synchrotron X-rays, which means I often travel to neutron and synchrotron facilities around the world to conduct experiments.

That spirit of shared endeavor was one reason I so strongly valued the Summit and, especially, the growing network of satellite sites. For those who could not travel to Denver, satellite sites offered an important alternative — one that allowed researchers to engage with Summit programming, exchange ideas with peers, and take part in locally organized discussions and presentations. They helped make the Summit more accessible, more connected, and more truly global.

From my perspective, that matters. One of the things I most appreciate most about APS is its ability to bring together physicists from many backgrounds in shared conversation. The satellite sites make that experience, and the theme of “Science for a shared future,” tangible even for those who can’t be on site.

The Hong Kong satellite site was a strong example of what makes this model so valuable. Hong Kong is a vibrant international hub with an energetic and well-connected physics community. The site’s success reflects the deep engagement of the local community, who actively seek out ways for physicists in the region to connect with the Summit, and with each other. For me, that’s APS at its best. Internationally connected, locally grounded, and strengthened by the communities that make it possible.

Looking back on the Summit, it’s inspiring to see how our community continues to grow and the new ways physicists find to participate, connect, and contribute. Looking ahead, I imagine APS continuing to build on this momentum through strengthened global outreach and new opportunities for collaboration, including joint conferences, topical workshops, and educational exchanges with regional physics societies. By embracing the spirit of “Science for a shared future,” we can affirm our commitment to a truly global enterprise — one that leverages the collective strength of the physics community to tackle important challenges and create new possibilities.