The Ri is a charity that brings the public and scientists together to share their interest and passion for science. We empower people to explore and get involved. We are a home for science and everyone is welcome.
With speakers who are renowned scientists, engineers and Nobel Prize winners, as well as world-class authors, artists and cultural commentators, our Ri talks, in person and online, are available to Members and Young Members for free or half price.
Becoming a Member is the only way to be in with a chance to attend our world-famous CHRISTMAS LECTURES®.
These are just the highlights! More information on the benefits of membership can be found below.
Join today
Member
Members enjoy the following benefits:
- MRi letters after your name and voting rights
- Free and half-price tickets for Ri Talks & Discourses*
- Exclusive access to CHRISTMAS LECTURES®**
- Priority booking plus invitations to special events and tours
- Discounts for adult workshops, short courses, books & magazines, venue hire and Ri Café*
Find out more about our current Member-only offers.
£70 by Direct Debit (£88 by card) | £37 by Direct Debit (£47 by card) for age 18-30
Young Member
Young Membership is for anyone under 18. Benefits include:
- Free and half-price tickets for Ri Talks, Family Fun Days & For Your Inspiration*
- Exclusive access to CHRISTMAS LECTURES®**
- Emails and packs with experiments to do at home
- Discounts for holiday workshops and books & magazines*
Find out about our current Member-only offers.
£28 by Direct Debit (£35 by card). Membership for those under 13 must be bought by an adult.
Family Membership
A flexible and cost-effective option for a mix of adults and children.
Includes up to 2 Members for £70 each and up to 4 Young Members for only £20 each.
Works for all family types. You do not need to be related or live at the same address.
Gift Membership
For those with an insatiably curious mind, give them a treat which lasts all year, featuring:
- MRi letters after their name and voting rights
- Free and half-price tickets for Ri Talks & Discourses*
- Exclusive access to CHRISTMAS LECTURES®**
- Priority booking plus invitations to special events and tours
- Discounts for adult workshops, short courses, books & magazines, venue hire and Ri Café*
Find out more about our current Member-only offers.
£70 by Direct Debit | £37 for age 18-30 | £28 for under 18
FAQs
When will I receive my welcome pack?
Your welcome pack, including your membership card, is sent by second class post and should reach you within 15 working days from the date of purchase. Your membership number is on your membership card and also in your confirmation email. You can use this to book your free and half-price event tickets.
When will Direct Debit subscription payments be taken?
It may take up to six weeks to collect your payment for your subscription, depending on the date the Direct Debit arrangement has been set up.
But don't worry, your membership is active from the date of purchase or the date you specified when purchasing a membership, and you can start using it straight away.
How can I book event tickets?
You just need to use your membership number included in your confirmation email or membership card to book events online. Bring your membership card with you when you attend the event.
How do I access CHRISTMAS LECTURES® tickets?
Members are eligible to access CHRISTMAS LECTURES® tickets. Details about the CHRISTMAS LECTURES® and how to apply for tickets are announced in the early autumn.
Can I bring a guest with me to events?
Yes, you are welcome to bring along a guest. If your guest is not a Member they will need to purchase a standard ticket.
Can someone else use my membership?
Membership is non-transferable.
Only the member named on the membership card will be able to receive the benefits of membership upon presentation of the card. Please ensure you bring your membership card with you when attending events.
I’ve lost my membership card. What do I do?
Please get in touch with the Membership Team at membership@ri.ac.uk to request a replacement card or for confirmation of your membership number. Replacement cards can take up to 15 working days to arrive.
Can the Ri claim Gift Aid on my membership?
We're unable to claim Gift Aid on membership subscriptions due to the high value of benefits provided.
You may make a donation in addition to your membership subscription to which Gift Aid provisions apply, as a charity we are able to claim 25p on top of every £1 made as a donation to us. These provisions also apply to the donation portion of Patron subscriptions.
What does my membership fee contribute to?
Everything!
The Ri is an independent charity with a mission to create opportunities for everyone to discover, discuss, and critically examine science and how it shapes the world around us.
We offer unique science engagement opportunities for young people around the UK, we present public talks and events with leading scientists and thinkers across a wide variety of disciplines, we have an invaluable heritage collection and public museum, and we produce high-quality digital resources which are available to access worldwide.
Your membership greatly contributes to preserving our heritage and inspiring future generations to think more deeply about science and its place in our lives.
I am interested in joining as a Patron. What are the next steps?
Our Patrons programme provides a unique opportunity to support the Ri and our charitable activities. Anyone over the age of 18 is eligible to become a Patron and you can join by contacting the Patrons team at patrons@ri.ac.uk.
How can I renew my membership?
We'll send you a renewal notice email 28 days before your renewal date with instructions on how to renew. You can renew your membership through our Membership Portal.
Where can I find the terms and conditions?
*limitations, exclusions and restrictions apply. See terms & conditions.
**CHRISTMAS LECTURES® tickets are limited. The main theatre is reserved for children. Terms & conditions apply.
Read our full terms and conditions.