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Grants

The Society makes grants both to individuals and to organisations in support of cultural and scientific activities which increase innovation, outreach and diversity in Leeds and its immediate area. It also supports local museums and galleries and publications relating to the city.

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About the Society

The Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society, founded in 1819, is a charity that promotes interest in science, literature and the arts – in the city of Leeds and beyond. We have meetings, lectures, entertainments, publications and visits.

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News

26 October 2023

Nano comes to life – Stoner Colloquium 17:15 on 30 Nov at University of Leeds – Sonia Contera, Professor of Biological Physics, University of Oxford

How nanotechnology ushers physics into biology, transforming medicine, the future of biology and… computing
24 September 2023

Honorary Life Memberships awarded

Contributions of long-serving members recognised
13 October 2022

LPLS Seeks Honorary Librarian

The Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society is looking to recruit an Honorary Librarian. Applications are welcome from members of LPLS, or individuals with an interest in joining the Society. Experience of working within an academic library would be an advantage.
1 April 2021

An intriguing connection between LPLS and the Red Planet…???

A Martian sundial might well sound as if it has come straight from some fantasy, but Leeds astronomer and former President of the Leeds Philosophical and Literary Society Charles Whitmell did actually once build such a device.
An image of a spider web against a green leafy background
30 January 2020

How Local Astronomer William Gascoigne Put Leeds at the Forefront of the Scientific Revolution – All Thanks to a Spider…

When William Gascoigne (1612-1644) died, whilst fighting for the army of King Charles I in the English Civil Wars, he seemed destined to be forgotten by history.
A greyscale picture of the Mummy of the priest Nesyamun. Showing a front view and side view.
18 January 2020

Nesyamun, ‘The Leeds Mummy’ is heard….after a 3000 year silence

A team of researchers have been able to reconstruct Nesyamun's vocal tract and hear the sound that it might once have made.

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Grants

The Society makes grants both to individuals and to organisations in support of cultural and scientific activities which increase innovation, outreach and diversity in Leeds and its immediate area. It also supports local museums and galleries and publications relating to the city.

Events

Since 1819, the Phil & Lit has been inviting the people of Leeds to hear from knowledgeable and entertaining speakers. Many are leaders in their field of science, arts or current affairs. We also hold an annual Science Fair and organise occasional visits.