Patrons Scheme

Join a vibrant community of individuals who are helping to drive the Ri forward .

A lecture in the Ri Theatre

Help drive our charitable mission

From supporting education programmes for pupils in the most disadvantaged parts of the UK, to engaging a global science community, and preserving and sharing the UK’s rich heritage of scientific advance – Ri Patrons build on our remarkable legacy and enable us to place science firmly at the centre of society. 

Not only do our Patrons enjoy access to a wide range of exclusive benefits, but they are dedicated to driving the Ri forward, ensuring that we continue to be at the forefront of science communication and a home for science where everyone is welcome. 

Your philanthropy will help us reach more curious minds, giving them vital opportunities to engage with the transformational power of science.

Patron Options

Electric Circle £650+

Minimum suggested donation £397, with benefits value of £253 

By becoming an Electric Circle Patron, you will deepen your journey with the Ri and become part of a like-minded community. Enjoy all the benefits of membership plus invitations to pre-Discourse receptions and free tickets to some of our most sought-after talks. To thank you for your support, your name will be recognised on our website.  

Thank you to current members of the Electric Circle:

Francis Andrew 

Julie Bishop 

Fergus Boyd 

Justin Brickwood 

Stuart Bridges 

Rebekah Bunbury 

Scott Carson 

Ken Charman 

Michael Clayton-Brown 

Steven Paul Cooper 

Glenn Elliott 

David Ellis 

Denys Firth 

Sophie Forgan 

Mr & Mrs Paul Goswell 

Ian Hooper 

Jonathan Hopkins 

Gareth Lilly 

David Lumley 

Sophie Storm MacLeod 

Charles McDowall 

Hyman Mindlin 

Shahpur Patell 

Christopher Potter 

Melinda Quintin 

David Ricketts 

Dean Rowell 

Luigi Santambrogio 

Gary Simmons 

Ariana von der Heyde 

David Weinberger 

John West 

Chris Wigley 

Carol Yip 

Diffusion Circle £3000+

Minimum suggested donation £2,391 with benefits value £609 

Gain a closer insight into the inner workings of the historic Ri and the significance of the work that you make possible. From explosive school science shows to preserving our valued collections, you’ll ensure we can continue to welcome everyone to indulge their love for science at the Ri.  

You will have numerous in-person opportunities to connect with fellow Patrons, senior Ri staff and esteemed scientists at exclusive events throughout the year, including VIP tickets for our coveted CHRISTMAS LECTURES. 

Your name will be listed alongside your fellow supporters in our our Impact Report.  

Thank you to current members of the Diffusion Circle:

Rahul Agarwal 

Nicholas and Tobe Aleksander 

Iain Bratchie 

Stephen Corben 

Ian Cragg-Hine 

Paul Drake 

The de Laszlo Foundation 

Sriram Nadathur 

Martin Pidd 

Tim, Stacy and Sebastian Thornton 

Jim Wright 

Faraday Circle £6000+

Minimum suggested donation £5163 with benefits value of £837

Step into the heart of the Ri family and experience our most exclusive moments. Make a lasting impact as you help us expand our reach beyond our walls and inspire science enthusiasts worldwide. 

Enjoy intimate gatherings with our most generous supporters, executive leadership, and renowned experts. Be among the first to join the Faraday Celebration, an exclusive event honouring those who make the Royal Institution’s work possible.  

Your name will be proudly displayed on our Honour’s Board opposite our prestigious theatre. 

Thank you to current members of the Faraday Circle:

Duncan and Lynn McInnes 

Hank and Jean Roberts 

Sir Desmond Pitcher 

The Faraday Foundation 

Director's Circle £12,000+

£12,000+ per year with benefits value of £2,395 and £9,605+ suggested donation 

As a Director's Circle patron, you'll enjoy very special access to the Ri and make a transformative impact on our charitable work. 

Share your passion for science by nominating a school to receive our explosive and exciting Science in Schools shows and visit to witness the impact your support makes. 

Host your own event* in our beautiful, historic Georgian-listed building, meet world-renowned scientists and  invite friends and family on a personal tour of the Ri. 

*Room hire only equivalent of £650, catering costs are not included.

Thank you to current members of the Director’s Circle:

Luca and Leila Bassi 

Cristóbal Conde 

Simon Godwin 

Jack Long 

W & M Seddon 

And those who wish to remain anonymous 

Join today

To find out more, please email Matilda Brady at mbrady@ri.ac.uk 

Notes

Patron contributions are made up of a voluntary donation and a payment to cover the associated benefits. Any additional amounts given over or above this benefits value are given freely as a donation and are eligible for Gift Aid. Should you wish to purchase benefits separately please call the patrons team on +44 (0)20 7670 2950 or email patrons@ri.ac.uk

Access to our events programme is subject to availability. 

Access to the CHRISTMAS LECTURES ® is subject to availability; children must be aged 11-17 on day of attendance.