Technical Showcases

This year’s UK RAS STEPS Showcase marks an exciting new chapter as we shine a spotlight on the heart of our community: the Special Interest Groups (SIGs). Following the success of last year’s event at the Science Museum in London, the 2026 Showcase will take place on 10th June at The National Robotarium, Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh.

This annual gathering brings together Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) from across Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) to celebrate achievements, exchange learning, and collaborate on future priorities. In 2026, the focus turns to the dynamic SIGs that have shaped so much of the STEPS programme’s progress – from sustainable manufacturing to automation, sensing, and robotics development.

Whether you’re already part of a SIG or you’re curious to get involved in areas such as Advancing Sustainable 3D Printing Practices, Automation of Liquid Handling, AI & Automation, Manufacturing for and with Robotics, ROS, or Microbots & Sensing, this Showcase is your chance to hear what’s been achieved, what’s coming next, and how you can contribute.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this landmark gathering – register now!

The Showcase will centre on the work, impact, and future direction of our SIGs. Through presentations, demonstrations and discussions, you’ll gain insights into:

• How SIGs have driven technical innovation and problem-solving
• Real-world applications and success stories from across the UK
• Collaborative projects emerging from SIG communities
• Opportunities to shape the final 18 months of the STEPS programme

This is a unique opportunity to learn directly from SIG leads and members, explore areas you may wish to join, and discover how SIGs can support your own technical practice.

Hear first-hand from RTPs who have taken part in workshops, international visits, placements, and SIG activities. Lightning talks and case studies will highlight:

• Skills and knowledge gained through STEPS-supported opportunities
• How SIGs foster peer-to-peer learning and knowledge exchange
• The personal and professional impact of participation—from lab practice to broader career development

Beyond the SIGs, the Showcase will also provide an update on:

• Key themes emerging across the RAS technical community
• Challenges faced by RTPs across the UK
• Opportunities for RTPs to influence and contribute to ongoing development

We’ll also look ahead to the final 18 months of the STEPS programme, outlining planned activities, ways to get involved, and the legacy we aim to build.

In afternoon breakout groups, participants will contribute to discussions on:

• What SIGs need to grow and thrive
• Skills and resource gaps to address
• How collaboration across institutions can be strengthened
• Community priorities for the next phase of RAS technical development

Your voice will help define future directions and ensure the needs of RTPs remain at the forefront.

With plenty of time throughout the day for networking, the Showcase is an excellent chance to connect with colleagues, explore potential collaborations, and build relationships across the RAS community.

For those who wish, guided tours of The National Robotarium will be available at the end of the day – an opportunity to see cutting-edge robotics facilities and research in action.

UK RAS STEPS will fully fund travel, accommodation and subsistence for eligible Research Technical Professionals working in robotics and autonomous systems within UK universities and RTOs, making this a fantastic opportunity for those driving technical excellence across the UK RAS landscape.