Developing skills and connecting Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) across GW4
RTPs are specialists who apply their technical knowledge and expertise to advancing research.
What is 
?
We are an EPSRC-funded programme using bespoke and innovative mechanisms to grow skills and expand knowledge for RTPs within the GW4 (Bath, Bristol, Cardiff & Exeter Universities).
We offer tailored RTP training & development opportunities, direct connections with industry, and network building across the South West region.
What does do?
We are:
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Developing peer networks and ‘Communities’ for regional knowledge exchange around key technology specialisms.
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Reviewing RTP training opportunities and developing a unique training schedule tailored to the needs of RTPs.
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Creating innovative mechanisms to connect industry with RTPs to progress industry challenges.
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Introducing trainee RTPs roles at each institute, to foster diverse pathways into technical careers.
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Delivering a robust evaluation of the X-CITED programme to disseminate key outcomes and learnings.
What is a Research Technical Professional (RTP)?:
“RTPs are specialists who apply their technical knowledge and expertise to advancing research.”
RTP roles include, but are not limited to: Senior Technician, Technical Specialist, Senior Research Technician, Specialist Lead Technician, Database Officer, Research Fellow, Lab Coordinator, Research Nurse, Laboratory Manager, Engineer, Project Manager, Staff Scientist, Data Scientist, Research Software Engineer, Senior Technical Specialist, Specialist Services Research Technician, Senior Research Software Engineer, Senior Data Scientist, Senior Engineer, Senior Project Manager, Specialist Technician / Senior Technical Specialist, Principal Research Software Engineer, Principal Data Scientist, Principal Engineer, Principal Project Manager, Facility Manager, Experimental Officer and Instrument Specialist.
Learn more about what an RTP here
X-CITED Training & Development Calendar
View our upcoming Training & Development Calendar for 2026-2027 - including online and in person training sessions, development funds available, and other events organised by the X-CITED programme.
To hear our latest updates on when Registration opens – sign up to our Mailing List here
X-CITED Industrial Connection Programme
Launching in September 2026 - View the opportunities and events organised for RTPs to connect directly with industry partners. Whether you have previous experience, or a new to industry collaborations, this programme will reduce engagement barriers, build visibility and contacts.
Other Development opportunities for RTPs, from collaborative organisations
View more training and development opportunities on offer to RTPs across the UK, being delivered by fellow funded programmes and other organisations
Keep in Touch
Click on below to Sign up to our mailing list Send us an email and Follow us on LinkedIn
X-CITED Programme Team and Governance
View our Governance structure, learn more about our Management team, and hear from our Ambassadors:
See our impact: Industrial Challenge Workshop 2025
