Technicians, engineers, researchers and STEM professionals from across the UK are set to gather at the University of Cambridge Technician Conference 2026 on Wednesday 30th September..

Running from 9:00am to 4:00pm, at the state-of-the-art Ray Dolby Centre, Department of Physics, the conference promises a dynamic day of keynote talks, hands-on workshops, facility tours, exhibitions and networking opportunities.

The programme includes workshops and discussions all focused on celebrating and developing the technical workforce that underpins research and innovation. Sessions 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® sessions
• Emotional Culture Deck workshops

Alongside the workshop programme, attendees can enjoy exhibitions, facility tours and a Repair Café, creating plenty of opportunities to connect with peers and discover new ideas.

Book Your Place Here.

All workshop sessions will open for booking shortly but among the highlights is the dedicated session:

Women in Robotics: Support, Networks and Career Development

15:00-16:00

This engaging session will bring together voices from across the robotics and technical STEM community to explore how networks, role models and inclusive communities can help individuals succeed and thrive throughout their careers.

Attendees will hear from Marie Daniels, Programme Lead for UK RAS STEPS, who will introduce the national initiative and share how it is helping to build a more diverse and inclusive robotics and autonomous systems community across the UK.

Joining Marie will be Dr Lucy Rogers MBE, the acclaimed inventor, engineer and broadcaster, who will offer personal reflections from her own career journey. Drawing on decades of experience in engineering and innovation, Dr Rogers will discuss the opportunities, challenges and lessons that have shaped her path and offer practical insights for those navigating careers in technical and STEM professions.

The session will also feature members of the Women in Robotics (WiR) community from Cambridge, who will share their experiences of building professional networks, finding support and creating pathways for career development within technical environments.

Funding Available Through UK RAS STEPS

UK RAS STEPS is offering funding for RAS Research Technical Professionals to attend. Apply here.