CEB Robot Club set to expand across the University

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology (CEB) has been awarded funding to expand its Robot Club to other departments across the University.

Now in its third year within CEB, the annual Robot Club competition teaches new skills to students, researchers and staff from across roles. Competitors work side-by-side – regardless of whether they are a student, researcher, technician or staff – and build confidence through hands-on making. The initiative is technician-led and runs alongside the department’s existing Makerspace facilities. 

Robot Club was developed by Anna Rudd, Technical Operations Manager in CEB, with delivery support from Josh Easy, Makerspace Manager. The format brings together mixed-role teams to design and build robots, introducing engineering concepts through practical problem-solving rather than formal teaching. The model is deliberately simple and designed to be easily adopted by other departments. 

The expansion is supported by £10,000 from the University’s Enhancing Research Culture Fund, which will cover the cost of set-up for departments. The funding will provide reusable robotics starter kits – including critical components, electronics and controllers – as well as a portable demonstration arena, and resources to support training and showcases. The aim is to create a standardised, tested kit that departments can use immediately without needing to design a format themselves. 

Josh says the priority is to remove the practical obstacles that typically prevents, or discourages, a department from attempting hands-on, technician-led, activities. 

“Not every department has the space or equipment to design something like this from scratch,” he said. “We’ve already tested what works, so we can offer a straightforward package that’s ready to run, with technicians on hand to support.” 

Russell Wilson, Technician Strategic Lead in the Learning and Organisational Development Team, fully backed CEB’s bid and is providing the department with ongoing central support. 

He said: “This is a fantastic initiative that really gets people thinking creatively, and using their hands. Robot Club is brilliant for technicians as well as students and staff. It gives techs the chance to show off their skills, mentor others, and be recognised for the expertise they bring. 

“Watching colleagues learn and appreciate what you do is hugely satisfying.” 

For participating departments, the only ongoing cost is the build cost of each robot, typically £100 to £300 per team, depending on design choices. Most components will be reuseable year on year, keeping ongoing costs low. The fund will cover workshop access, kit and the infrastructure needed, allowing departments to take part for as little as £500 per year for a small 5-team competition. 

Departments will not need their own engineering workshop to get involved. For teams without suitable facilities, CEB Robot Club members will be able to assist when required and provide access to the CEB Makerspace for pre-booked sessions. There will also be plenty of practical guidance on tools, machines and safety. 

CEB is also producing a fully enclosed, portable polycarbonate arena that departments will be able to book and borrow. It is designed to fit in a trailer, which can easily be transported by any vehicle with a tow bar. 

CEB’s long-term goal is to support a network of departmental clubs and bring teams together for inter-department competitions. 

Departments or individuals interested in taking part, or in exploring how Robot Club could work in their own setting, are encouraged to contact Makerspace Manager Josh Easy (je451) for further information. 

More information

Find out more about our Robot Club as we prepare for our third competition in May 2026.

Read Josh’s blog on why Robot Club works so well