University of Cambridge Technician Conference 2026
Technicians, engineers, researchers and STEM professionals from across the UK are invited to the University of Cambridge Technician Conference 2026, a day dedicated to celebrating and supporting the technical workforce underpinning research, innovation and discovery.
Taking place at the state-of-the-art Ray Dolby Centre in the Department of Physics, the conference will bring together technical professionals from a wide range of disciplines to share knowledge, explore emerging trends and build valuable professional connections.
Conference programme
The programme features keynote talks, interactive workshops, facility tours, exhibitions and networking opportunities. Topics will include:
- Building the technical talent pipeline
- AI and the future of research
- Grant writing for technicians
- Professional registration
- Fair attribution and publishing
- Shared facilities and knowledge exchange
- Sustainability in technical roles
- LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® workshops
- Emotional Culture Deck sessions
Attendees will also be able to explore exhibitions, participate in facility tours and visit the Repair Café—providing further opportunities to exchange ideas, discover new approaches and connect with colleagues from across the technical community.
Additional workshop sessions will open for booking shortly.
Programme highlight: Women in Robotics
Women in Robotics: Support, Networks and Career Development will take place from 3:00–4:00 pm.
This discussion will explore how professional networks, role models and inclusive communities can support career progression and success in robotics and technical STEM fields.
The session will feature Marie Daniels, Programme Lead for UK RAS STEPS, discussing how the national initiative is helping to build a more diverse and inclusive Robotics and Autonomous Systems community across the UK.
She will be joined by Dr Lucy Rogers MBE, inventor, engineer and broadcaster, who will share reflections on her career journey and insights into navigating opportunities and challenges within engineering and innovation.
Members of the Cambridge Women in Robotics community will also share their experiences of building networks, finding support and developing successful careers in technical environments.
UK RAS STEPS funding
UK RAS STEPS is offering support through its Conference & Training Funding Scheme to eligible Robotics and Autonomous Systems Research Technical Professionals.
The conference offers a valuable opportunity to learn, collaborate and celebrate the expertise of technicians and technical professionals while exploring the future of technical careers in research and innovation.
Event details
Date: Wednesday 30 September 2026
Time: 9:00 am–4:00 pm BST
Venue: Ray Dolby Centre, Department of Physics – Cavendish Laboratory
Address: Cavendish Laboratory, JJ Thomson Avenue, Cambridge CB3 0US
