A fully funded day of innovation, hands-on robotics, Special Interest Group insights and the second year of the UK RAS STEPS Technical Excellence Awards. 

Momentum is building for this year’s UK RAS STEPS Special Interest Groups (SIG) Showcase at The National Robotarium on 10th June 2026. With a day packed full of technical insights, practical demonstrations, community collaboration and an all-new robotics competition, this is set to be a fantastic day – and night! 

This year’s focus is on our Special Interest Groups with places exclusively for Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) working in robotics and autonomous systems at UK universities. If you have been or would like to be involved in Advancing Sustainable 3D Printing Practices; Automation of Liquid Handling; AI & Automation; Manufacturing for and with Robotics; ROS or Microbots & Sensing.

REGISTER NOW!! 

All accommodation, travel and eligible subsistence are fully funded, making this a standout opportunity to connect, learn and contribute to the future of RAS technical practice in the UK. 

This year brings four major highlights: 

• A new hands-on robotics competition, where participants will work in teams using robot kits to solve technical challenges. 

• The return of the UK RAS STEPS Technical Awards, now in their second year, celebrating excellence, leadership and collaboration across the national RAS technical community. 

• Guided tours of The National Robotarium – See cutting-edge robotics research and facilities up close. 

• A fully funded evening dinner at Dynamic Earth, offering a memorable setting for relaxed networking at one of Edinburgh’s most iconic venues. 

UK RAS STEPS Technical Excellence Awards 

To recognise the achievements and impact of technical professionals within the UK’s robotics and autonomous systems ecosystem, we are delighted to introduce three new national awards. 

If you – or your team – have made a significant contribution, we strongly encourage nominations. 

Outstanding Special Interest Group Award – for the SIG whose activities, initiatives and community engagement have most strengthened knowledge sharing and professional development across the RAS technical community. 

STEPS SIG Collaboration Champion Award – for an individual who has excelled in fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, or cross-group working within STEPS SIGs. 

STEPS Emerging Leader in Research Technology Award - for an RTP demonstrating strong leadership potential, initiative, and commitment to advancing their specialism or the wider technical community. 

Application Timeline 

• Applications close: 1st May 2026 

• Shortlisted nominees notified: By 22nd May 2026 

• Awards presented: 10th June 2026 at the Showcase 

Winners will be announced during the event, making the Showcase a landmark moment for celebrating technical excellence across the UK. You’ve got to be in it to win it, so get those nominations sent in! 

Why Attend the 2026 SIG Showcase? 

This year’s event shines a spotlight on the Special Interest Groups powering innovation across the STEPS programme. Whether you’re already involved or curious to explore new technical domains, the Showcase offers unparalleled opportunities to learn, connect, and shape the future of UK RAS technical practice. 

Highlights Include: 

Presentations & Case Studies 

Covering: 

• Sustainable 3D printing 

• Advancements in our Automation of Liquid Handling SIG 

• Peer-to-peer mentoring 

• International visits (Tokyo, Uganda & more) 

• Real-world impacts of STEPS support 

Lightning Talks – Hear directly from RTPs who’ve taken part in placements, workshops and training opportunities. 

🤖 NEW: Robotics Competition (13:30–14:30)
Teams of four.
Two robots per table.
One hour of building, testing, problem solving and friendly competition. 

Perfect for hands-on learning and collaboration – no previous robotics experience required. 

Career Pathways & Future Planning – Updates on community challenges, emerging themes and opportunities to get involved. 

Breakout Sessions – Help shape what RAS technical development should look like over the next 18 months. 

Networking Opportunities – Dedicated time to build connections and explore new collaborations. 

Don’t miss out!
To keep the focus on the RTP community, participation is limited to Research Technical Professionals.