Makerspace

A hands-on creative space for students, researchers and staff to create, explore and build

The Makerspace is a shared workshop where you can design, prototype and bring your ideas to life – whether it’s a research tool, a robot, or a one-off project.

We provide tools, training and technical support for everything from soldering and 3D printing to advanced fabrication.

The space runs on a two-tier membership system, giving you flexible access based on the complexity of your project and the equipment you need.

What's here?

Split into two workshop areas, the Makerspace includes:

3D printing
Laser cutting (plastics, wood, card and thin metal)
Basic and advanced soldering equipment
CNC milling and PCB manufacturing
Hand tools and bench space
Electronics testing and assembly area

Memberships and access

You can choose between Tier 1 and Tier 2 membership, depending on the equipment and support you need.

Tier 1

Core tools and support. Ideal for quick prototyping, basic electronics and early-stage projects.

Includes:

Basic design support and CAD software access
3D printing (FDM and SLA)
Soldering stations and electronics benches
Raspberry Pi / Arduino kits and support
CO₂ laser cutting
Vacuum and pressure forming
Hand tools, workbenches and basic assembly equipment
Pillar drills, disc sanders and a hobby lathe

Includes introductory training and on-hand guidance from the Makerspace team.

Free for CEB undergraduates, Master’s students and departmental support staff.
External University of Cambridge staff/students:
£240 per user/year
External entities/corporate:£500 per user/year

Tier 2

Advanced fabrication and project support. For more complex builds and larger projects needing specialist tools and technician time.

Includes everything in Tier 1, plus:

CNC milling and turning
Metal laser cutting
Waterjet cutting
Manual lathe for metal and precision parts
PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design and manufacturing support
Larger workbenches for group or long-term projects
Free technician labour (up to 20 hours) - CEB members only
Enhanced design support, including one-to-one help - CEB members only
Priority access to new and high-spec kit

And more, just ask the team what's possible.

Please enquire for CEB undergraduates, Master's students and departmental support staff.
External University of Cambridge staff/students:
£500 per user/year
External entities/corporate: £1,000 per user/year

Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash

Photo by ThisisEngineering on Unsplash

No membership

No access will be provided to the Makerspace.

Without membership there will be:

No design support

No equipment repair support
Projects can only be requested via the Makerspace app (accessed via the intranet)

Not sure which tier you need?

Come by for a chat.

Josh and the team run regular 'Tour & Ask' sessions when there is demand – where you can have a look around, check out the tools and get help choosing the right level of access.

*It is essential that you inform the team of your status as a member of the department (CEB), member of the university (UoC) or external.

Request 'Tour & Ask' session

Pricing and registration details (university staff/students only) available here.

Where to find us

The Makerspace is located in the lab block of CEB in L1.20 and L1.22.

Department-specific fire safety training is necessary to gain access to the lab block (further details to be provided during membership sign-up).

Access is granted to the Makerspace depending on the membership secured and completion of relevant training.

Opening hours

Tier 1

We are open 7 days a week from 8:30am - 10pm

Some equipment will only be available for use when trained staff are on hand (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) but, provided full training has been provided, other equipment will be available.

Tier 2

We are open Monday to Friday from 9am - 5pm

Equipment can only be used when trained staff are on hand. You can book equipment time, training or technician services using our app.

Members are able to request access outside of these times, but it must be approved in advance.

The Makerspace App

The app allows you to book equipment for your own use or to schedule a project for a technician to work on.

You will be able to use our Makerspace app, allowing you to book in and manage project requests, book training and inductions, pre-book usable equipment, sign up to Makerspace events, and join the Makerspace community.