What to Expect at LIYSF 2027: Lectures, Research Visits and London Adventures

Every summer, hundreds of young science lovers from around the world travel to London for one of the most exciting STEM experiences available to students: the London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF). The 2027 programme runs from 18 to 31 July 2027 at Imperial College London. It brings together around 500 students aged 16 to 21 from 90 countries for two weeks of lectures, research visits, cultural events and London adventures.

If you are a student, parent or teacher thinking about LIYSF, this article explains what the two weeks actually look like and why so many participants call it life-changing.

Quick Facts About LIYSF 2027

1. Learn from Nobel Laureates and Leading Scientists

The Principal Lectures run through the whole fortnight. They are given by Nobel Prize winners and some of the world’s top scientists. Past speakers include Nobel laureate Sir Venki Ramakrishnan and astrophysicist Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell. The 2027 Forum opens on Monday 19 July with an Opening Ceremony, a keynote lecture and a welcome from the LIYSF President, Professor Clare Elwell.

Students also attend Subject Specialist Lectures, Alumni Specialist Lectures given by former participants, and a full Specialist Study Day on Wednesday 28 July, where they can go deeper into the fields they love.

2. Go Behind the Scenes at Real Research Centres

LIYSF takes science out of the lecture hall. During the programme, students visit:

• research and scientific establishments across London (Tuesday 20 July)
• research establishments in Oxford and Cambridge (Thursday 22 July)
• the world-famous Science Museum (Sunday 25 July)
• further UK research and scientific establishments (Tuesday 27 July)

These visits show students how real research works and what scientists do every day.

3. Share Your Own Research

LIYSF is about sharing ideas as well as listening. On Saturday 24 July, students present their projects at the Research Project Poster Session, known as the Science Forum Bazaar. Later, on Thursday 29 July, the Science Communication Forum and Research Showcase gives them another chance to present their work and practise explaining science clearly.

4. Debate, Network and Plan Your Future

Several sessions focus on skills and careers:

• a Debate Session on Wednesday 21 July
• a Networking Evening on Thursday 22 July
• a Scientific Careers and PhD Pathways session with researchers and industry experts on Tuesday 27 July
• the LIYSF Closing Debate: Science and Society on Friday 30 July

For students planning university courses or research careers, these sessions offer valuable guidance and contacts.

5. Make Friends from 90 Countries

The social programme is one of the things students remember most. Highlights include:

• Arrivals Mixer and Orientation Tour – Sunday 18 July
• Pin Exchange and LIYSF Grand Quiz – Monday 19 July
• Great Crossword Treasure Hunt – Tuesday 20 July
• Traditions of Home, an evening of world customs and fashion – Sunday 25 July
• LIYSF Olympics, a sports day with team games – Monday 26 July
• International Cabaret, a cultural showcase – Wednesday 28 July
• Farewell Party – Friday 30 July

6. Explore London and Beyond

Students can also book optional visits to some of Britain’s most famous places:

• the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace or the London Eye (Wednesday 21 July)
• a guided coach tour of London (Saturday 24 July)
• a choice of Stonehenge, Oxford, Cambridge, Hampton Court Palace or the Tower of London (Sunday 25 July)
• a theatre night in London (Thursday 29 July)

Optional visits are not included in the main programme fee.

Safe and Supported Throughout

Parents can feel reassured. LIYSF provides 24/7 on-site support and medical assistance, staff supervision and supervised travel to all visits and events. Students live in secure halls at Imperial College London for the whole programme.

Certificate, Scholarships and Virtual Access

• Certificate: every participant receives an LIYSF Certificate of Participation endorsed by partner institutions.
• Scholarships: partial funding is available for outstanding applicants.
• LIYSF Virtual: students who cannot travel can watch all the Principal Lectures live or on demand.

How to Apply for LIYSF 2027

1. Make sure you are aged 16 to 21 and passionate about STEM.
2. Complete the online application form with your personal and academic details.
3. Submit the required documents, including academic references if needed.
4. Pay the deposit to secure your place.

Is LIYSF 2027 Worth It?

For a young person who loves science, few experiences compare. In two weeks, students hear Nobel laureates, step inside real research centres, present their own work, explore London and make friends across the globe. LIYSF builds knowledge as well as the confidence, curiosity and connections that can shape a whole career.

You can see the complete day-by-day timetable on the official LIYSF 2027 schedule page.