about the Ri

Since the Royal Institution was established over 200 years ago, the Ri has observed 14 of its resident scientists receive the Nobel Prize, and witnessed the discovery of 10 of the chemical elements. Some of the most influential and seminal scientific discoveries such as sodium, the electric generator and the atomic structure of crystals were discovered here. Our heritage is unique; famous scientists such as Humphry Davy, Michael Faraday, James Dewar and William and Lawrence Bragg all based their innovative and groundbreaking work at the Ri, the discoveries of which still impact our daily lives.

During these 200 years, the Ri has continued to communicate scientific issues to the general public through its high calibre events that break down the barriers between science and society. It acts as a unique forum for informing people about how science affects their daily lives, and prides itself on its reputation for engaging the public in scientific debate. Lectures for young people have been an important activity at the Ri since Michael Faraday initiated them in the 1820s. Now, over 30,000 children visit the Ri each year to take part in the lavishly illustrated and interactive Young Person's Programme.

Our membership is open to all who share our passion for science, whether you come from a scientific background or not. We are dedicated to welcoming people of all ages and from all areas of science, and are committed to provide a central place for you to think, talk and listen to the exciting developments of science in the 21st Century.

To reflect the rapid expansion we are witnessing, The Royal Institution is now advancing an exciting and innovative development programme that will upgrade and renovate the building and create more accessible areas for the public and our membership. Such developments will include the complete transformation of the basement areas stretching under the Ri, the introduction of a dedicated restaurant/café area, a modern, interactive museum and more rooms that will be open to the public and Ri members.

Not only do we invite you to the Royal Institution to participate in one of our events, but some of the magnificent rooms are also available for you to hire to host your own event. Whether a simple wine reception in our beautiful Main Library or a grand lecture in the famous Faraday Lecture Theatre, we have the facilities for you.

The Davy Faraday Research Laboratory at the Ri has a dynamic and wide-ranging research programme in the field of the synthesis, characterisation and optimisation of complex materials. There are more than 60 people either studying or researching in the Laboratory, of which about 30 are researching for their pHDs.

The Science Media Centre located in the renovated premises of Number 19 Albemarle Street, provides the print and broadcast media with access to in-depth information on science-related issues. It endeavours to forge links and greater understanding between scientists and journalists.