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Development opportunities for RTPs

Development opportunities for RTPs

As part of the X-CITED programme, we are committed to developing a bespoke training platform that addresses the unique needs of RTPs. This will be shaped by meaningful engagement with RTP communities to ensure it reflects their priorities and aspirations.

In addition to our tailored training initiatives (found on the X-CITED Events & Development Opportunities X-CITED Development Opportunities for RTPs page), we will curate and share a range of opportunities from external providers, offering RTPs access to a diverse suite of resources and learning experiences.

We invite all RTPs within the GW4community to contribute to this ongoing dialogue about future training needs. To share your ideas and help shape the programme, as well as hear about updates and events, please sign up to our mailing list here. Or, you can contact us at x-cited@gw4.ac.uk


Staff training opportunities at the GW4 institutions:

Please note: You will need your staff login details to access the training from within your institution.


Other development opportunities:


Training – Open Ended

Introduction to Python for Health Research

You will be able to use Python to import and manipulate datasets, and be confident in performing programming operations such as using conditionals, loops, and functions, as well as conducting basic statistical analyses

FUTURES / Online / Free

Click here for more details


Training – Open Ended

Data Standardisation

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of data standards in modern health research
  • Understand the application of different kinds of data standards during the various research stages
  • Take steps towards more effective reproducibility and data harmonisation
  • Understand and utilise reproducible data workflows

FUTURES / Online / Free

Click here for more details


Training – Open Ended

Bringing Software as a Medical Device to Market

After completing this course, you will be able to:

  • Describe the different categories of medical device
  • Explain the differences between the three key markets for medical devices
  • List the risk classes and compliance processes used by regulators
  • Create a Quality Management System
  • Describe processes used to rectify quality problems
  • Explain how medical devices are evaluated for both clinical and health economics outcomes

FUTURES / Online / Free

Click here for more details


Training – Open Ended

Research Software Engineering

You will learn about various software development methodologies, tools, and techniques that are commonly used in research software engineering. You will also learn about best practices for software design, coding, testing, and documentation, and how to apply these principles to your own software projects. Furthermore, you will be introduced to the key challenges and considerations that are unique to the research software engineering domain, such as ensuring reproducibility and collaboration, and balancing the trade-offs between performance and code maintainability.

FUTURES / Online / Free

Click here for more details


Event – APPLICATION DEADLINE 15th August 2025 – Event held 22nd-28th February 2026

Macro to Micro: Quantitative Plant Imaging Across Scales

This Workshop will showcase and bring together interdisciplinary researchers utilising imaging across different spatial levels in plants. It aims to forge links across these differing imaging areas to increase our holistic understanding of plant physiology.

IMC21 / In person – Buxted Park, East Sussex / TBC (application required)

Click here for more details


Funding – APPLICATION DEADLINE 31st August 2025 – Travel Dates 1st November 2025 – 30th June 2026

International Conference Fund

This fund supports Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) to attend international conferences and scientific meetings that will enhance your skills, grow your network, and support your career development.

You can apply for up to £5,000 to cover conference fees, travel, accommodation, and daily expenses.

TSN ROKS / In person / TBC (application required)

Click here for more details


Event – NTPMI Conference: Technicians in Materials Innovation – 4th – 5th September 2025

This event will bring together Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) from the materials innovation community for a one-day programme of workshops, career talks and networking opportunities.

UKRAS STEPS / In person – Manchester / Free

Click here for more details


Event – AutumnFest – 8th – 12th September 2025

UK ITSS is proud to be running AutumnFest for technical professionals in Sept 2025. We’ve got free sessions on career development, technical teaching, project management and more. Open to all UK technicians in Higher Education and Research Institutions.

Sessions include:

  • Career Planning for Technicians
  • Intro to mastering managing a technical workplace
  • Coaching skills for everyday conversations
  • Making a successful application to the Knowledge Exchange Placement fund
  • Writing a great application form & CV
  • Accessibility in technical workplaces
  • Intro to Project Management
  • And much more!

ITSS / Online / Free

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Conference – 17th September 2025

International Research Culture Conference

IRCC25 will showcase innovative research culture initiatives and capture knowledge through the publication of a Research Culture Special Issue

ITSS / Hybrid / Free

Click here for more details


Funding – APPLICATION DEADLINE 30th September 2025 

Facility Day Fund

Research Technical Professionals can apply for funding to host an event, allowing you to showcase your facility, connect with peers, and strengthen collaborations across the community.

Funding can support events designed to showcase technical expertise and equipment, connect with potential users or collaborators, and build community among technical staff and researchers. These might include talks, interactive sessions, tours, and informal networking

TSN ROKS / In person / TBC (application required)

Click here for more details


Event – Data & Slides, No More Death by PPT! – 16th October 2025

Sharpen your skills in presenting research with this practical, hands-on session.

UKRAS STEPS / Online / Free

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Event – Storytelling for Research, Unleash the Power of Narrative – 14th November 2025

Sharpen your skills in presenting research with this practical, hands-on session.

UKRAS STEPS / Online / Free

Click here for more details


Event – 28th August 2026 – 5th September 2026

21st International Microscopy Congress IMC21

A major scientific event held every four years, considered the “Olympics of Microscopy”. It provides a global platform for researchers, industry leaders, and experts to present and discuss cutting-edge research in microscopy.

IMC21 Congress theme is The Next Generation – Embracing the Responsible AI Revolution.

This overarching conference theme is representing a compelling and forward-looking vision and captures the spirit of innovation and evolution.

IMC21 / In person – Liverpool / From £350.00

Click here for more details


University of Bath
University of Bristol
Cardiff University
University of Exeter