Physics students feeling positive after inspirational competition experience
Physics students at the University of Chester have revelled in an exhilarating and inspiring national competition featuring dozens of teams across the UK and Ireland.
Harsh Vardhan and Muhammed Raihan Cheru Kattil represented the University at the PLANCKS (Physics League Across Numerous Countries for Kick-ass Students) tournament hosted by the Institute of Physics at Swansea University, with competitors battling to reach a place at the international finals in Barcelona.
The event, which provides a unique opportunity for students to develop their knowledge, understanding, and enjoyment of physics, was highly competitive, featuring 37 teams from 34 universities across the UK and Ireland. It also offered a chance to collaborate, network, and meet like-minded people to share their love of physics and problem-solving.
Harsh and Raihan, both first-year students, accredited themselves well against teams featuring third-year and Master’s students, earning a very respectable top 15 finish.
While the main feature of the event was a gruelling four-hour exam which tested everyone to their limits on physics knowledge, there were plenty of other activities for students to enjoy, as the weekend commenced with a visit to cutting-edge semiconductor research facility CISM.
In addition, thought-provoking lectures dove into subjects such as string theory, Lagrangian mechanics and apocalyptic scenarios, while – away from the lecture theatre – students enjoyed networking and a fun murder mystery activity.
Harsh said: “Participating in PLANCKS was an unforgettable adventure filled with both intellectual challenges and exciting moments. The event was a perfect blend of learning, exploration, and camaraderie, leaving me inspired and motivated.
"PLANCKS reignited my passion for physics — the tough questions and shared struggles made me love it even more."
Raihan said: “As a first-year physics student, PLANCKS was both an unnerving and exhilarating experience, combining the intensity of competition with the thrill of immersing myself in the passion for physics.
“Aspiring to be a physicist, PLANCKS introduced me to a crucial aspect of the field – networking. The satisfaction of cracking a tough question, bouncing ideas off teammates, and strategising solutions felt like the essence of being a physicist. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and will definitely return next year.
“PLANCKS made me realise that to be a great physicist, you need much more than just knowledge – it's about collaboration, curiosity, and the shared pursuit of discovery.”
Dr Theo Papadopoulos, Associate Professor in Natural Sciences and programme leader of the BSc Physics course, added: "I would like to congratulate Harsh and Raihan for representing the university at PLANCKS 2025. This was a national competition that not only challenged students' intellect, but also fostered collaboration and welcomed them in the wider physics community via fun and engaging activities!
“I believe their passion for physics will inspire others to follow. A huge thank you to our Head of Department, Krista McLennan, for providing support to make their trip to Swansea possible.”