International Visits

These visits include a mix of informative talks and lab tours, providing valuable insights into research and development practices across the globe. All costs for these visits will be covered by UK RAS STEPS.

We are inviting expressions of interest from Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) to join an international knowledge exchange visit to the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute (CMMI) in Larnaca, Cyprus, from 12–15 April 2027.

The four-day programme will explore marine robotics and autonomous systems, autonomous navigation, maritime sensing, environmental monitoring, digital technologies, responsible innovation and operational safety. Participants will engage with CMMI researchers and technical specialists, share their own expertise and build international connections.

Applications close at midday on Friday 23 October 2026, or when 30 applications have been received.

Find out more and apply.

The Global Knowledge Exchange Funding Pot is designed exclusively for Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) in the RAS community.

This funding will support international travel, accommodation, and subsistence to visit labs, universities, or research institutions around the world. The goal is to enable knowledge exchange, skills development, and collaboration with international peers.

Find out more.

Alex Sleat, Technical Facility Manager at Manchester Metropolitan University, reflects on his UK RAS STEPS-supported visit to Tokyo and the impact it had on his professional development. From overcoming imposter syndrome to gaining first-hand insight into world-leading robotics research, Alex discusses how international experiences, networking, and knowledge exchange are helping technicians build confidence, create new opportunities, and strengthen collaborations across the robotics community.

In April 2026, UK RAS STEPS led its first international knowledge exchange visit, taking a group of ten RTPs to Tokyo, Japan. The visit featured an intensive programme across leading universities and industry partners, including the Department of Human and Engineered Environmental Studies and the Department of Precision Engineering at the University of Tokyo, the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Tokyo University of Science, and RT Corporation.

I am grateful to the UK RAS STEPS Programme for providing me with the incredible opportunity to travel to Uganda and contribute to an international research project. This experience not only expanded my technical experience but also allowed me to apply engineering principles in a real-world, cross-cultural context. The support from the programme has been invaluable in helping me grow both professionally and personally. The commitment to supporting technicians and researchers at all career stages is truly making a difference.

– Rhys Moore, Senior 3D Printing Technician, University of Leeds

UK RAS STEPS is an outstanding programme that combines meticulous organisation with meaningful professional development. The opportunity to engage with leading international labs has been both insightful and highly relevant to strengthening our own approaches to research support and lab management.

– Simon Castle-Green, Technical Manager, University of Nottingham