Technical Excellence Awards
Nomination and Application Details
If you or your team have made a significant contribution in this field, we encourage you to nominate yourself, a colleague or Special Interest Group for one of the following categories:
Outstanding Special Interest Group Award – Recognises the Special Interest Group whose initiatives, activities, and community engagement have significantly strengthened knowledge‑sharing and professional development across the RAS technical community.
STEPS SIG Collaboration Champion Award – Celebrates an individual who has significantly contributed to cross‑group collaboration, knowledge‑sharing, or community building within any of the SIGs.
STEPS Emerging Leader in Research Technology Award – Recognises an RTP who demonstrates leadership potential, initiative, and commitment to advancing their specialism or the wider community.
Application Timetable
- Applications Open: w/c 22nd February, 2026
- Applications Close: 1st May, 2026
- Judging Panel: Week commencing 18th May, 2026
- Shortlisted Technicians and Nominators Notified: By 22nd May, 2026
- Awards Presented at the UK RAS STEPS Special Interest Group Showcase: 10th June, 2026
If you are nominated but not shortlisted:
You will be informed that you have not been shortlisted but will still receive a digital certificate to acknowledge your achievements and contribution to the field of RAS.
If you are shortlisted to win:
Shortlisted nominees will be notified by email. All shortlisted individuals and teams will be invited to attend the UK RAS STEPS Special Interest Group Showcase on 10th June 2026, where the winners will be announced.
If you are shortlisted but unable to attend the event, we will ask for a member of your team or organisation to collect the prize or any highly commended certificates on your behalf; or send a digital certificate.
The UK RAS STEPS Technical Showcase will be held at The National Robotarium, Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh.
Nominations can be submitted by any member of the higher education community, including:
- Students
- Staff
- Collaborators
We encourage all who are involved with RAS to take part in recognising exceptional achievements.
Technical professionals can nominate themselves, if supporting statements are provided.
All nominations will be reviewed by an independent judging panel.
Nominate Now!
Make sure to submit your nominations by 1st May 2026.
For any further information, please contact us at info@ukras-steps.org