Background

Research technicians are highly skilled specialists who have expert knowledge and technical competence in their field and are critical to the success of the UK research ecosystem. However, most universities struggle to support technicians’ needs for career progression. Systemic challenges faced by research technicians include ensuring clarity of career pathways, supporting equitable recognition, and providing appropriate professional development opportunities.

Aims

The Scottish Research Technicians’ Professional Academy (SRTP Academy) supports research technicians by creating opportunities for professional growth through workshops, networking events, and tailored training. It is building a sustainable community that encourages collaboration, knowledge exchange, and peer support. By showcasing technicians’ expertise and leadership potential, the SRTP Academy challenges traditional institutional hierarchies and advocates for greater recognition of their contributions. By expanding the definition of leadership and contribution in research, the SRTP Academy promotes values of inclusion, collaboration, and respect, fostering a research culture where all contributors are valued and celebrated.

Methodology

Data on roles, expertise, and challenges of research technicians has been gathered through surveys and focus group discussions to understand the community’s needs and aspirations. Continuous engagement for discussions, collaboration, and resources is supported through an online platform. Tailored training and workshops are co-designed with external training providers to address the professional needs emerged from our survey and focus group discussions.

Outputs

The Academy is creating a database for research technical roles that catalogues expertise across the Universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and St Andrews. A Sway page for disseminating promotional material and information has been created, and a Teams channel for networking, resource sharing, and collaboration has also been set up. Focus group discussions identified the community’s professional needs which informed the development of tailored trainings and workshops. Topics include leadership, project management, research contribution recognition, grant writing, and networking.

Upcoming Events

The (SRTP) Academy, supported by The InFrame Project, is delivering a focused series of professional development workshops for technicians across our partner universities. These sessions offer practical skills, expert guidance, and opportunities to connect with the wider technical community.

Across early 2026, technicians can access training in leadership, grant writing, project management, and recognising and evidencing leadership—each designed to support career growth and strengthen research culture.

We look forward to welcoming colleagues from across our networks to these valuable learning opportunities. If you require more information please contact inframe@gla.systa-s.com.

Leadership Awareness & Culture Building

26 February 2026, 9:00–12:30 (online)
Develop your leadership confidence, explore inclusive research culture, and connect with peers across institutions. This interactive workshop, delivered by Jill Burgess (FCIPD), supports technicians to recognise their leadership potential and strengthen communication and self‑awareness skills.

LINK TO REGISTER

Grant Writing Workshop for Technicians

2 March 2026, 12:00–15:00 (online)
A practical workshop designed to help technicians understand the UK funding landscape, explore UKRI opportunities, learn from real case studies, and build confidence in the grant‑writing process. Delivered in collaboration with UKRI and university partners.

LINK TO REGISTER

Project Management Training (UK Institute for Technical Skills & Strategy)

Online: 11 February 2026, 10:00–16:00
In‑Person (Edinburgh): 11 March 2026, 10:30–14:30
Strengthen your project planning, delegation, communication, and progress‑tracking skills in this blended 1.5‑day training delivered by Edward Bowerman. Ideal for technicians seeking practical tools they can apply immediately.

LINK TO REGISTER

Recognising & Evidencing Leadership

25 March 2026, 10:00–14:00 (in Glasgow)
Join Dr Robin Henderson for an interactive session exploring what leadership looks like in research, how technicians demonstrate it daily, and how to evidence these skills using frameworks like STAR. A supportive peer‑learning environment designed to build confidence and recognition.

LINK TO REGISTER