NU Technician Awards

Awarded to a technical colleague who has made a significant impact on research activities across any discipline (e.g. arts, humanities, science, engineering, medicine). Nominations may include: 

• support for REF submissions 

• data generation and analysis 

• method design and validation 

• securing research income 

• contributions to publications 

• installation, commissioning, or facilitation of next-generation equipment, processes, or apparatus 

Awarded to a technical colleague who has significantly enhanced the student learning experience, teaching delivery, outreach, or engagement. Nominations may include: 

• demonstrating experimental techniques or equipment 

• preparing and maintaining a safe learning environment 

• contributing to module design 

• supporting school outreach programmes or university open days 

Awarded to a technical colleague or team who manages, maintains, or supports core facilities, delivering outstanding service to enable research or education. Nominations may include: 

• use of technical expertise to support infrastructure or facilities 

• innovative or practical approaches to problem-solving 

• leadership in projects or initiatives 

• sustained technical input or improvements to facility operations 

Awarded to a technical colleague who has started their technical career (substantive post or apprenticeship) within the past five years and has demonstrated exceptional potential. Nominations may include: 

• early achievements 

• professional growth 

• promise for future contributions 

Awarded to a technical colleague who delivers outstanding service in technical operations, ensuring the smooth and effective delivery of teaching or research. Examples may include: 

• coordination of goods and materials 

• management of shared infrastructure (e.g. autoclaves or specialist equipment) 

• operational excellence in support services 

Awarded to a technical colleague who exemplifies the values of the organisation and provides exceptional service to colleagues, students, or the public. Nominations may include: 

• voluntary contributions beyond their role (e.g. Health and Safety responsibilities) 

• delivery of impactful outreach activities 

• engagement with internal initiatives that positively influence the workplace 

Awarded to a technical team that has demonstrated excellence in collaboration and delivery towards a shared goal. Nominations may include: 

• a team’s journey and collective impact 

• evidence of resilience, adaptability, innovation, and expertise 

• improvements implemented and outcomes achieved 

• how collaboration enhanced the team’s performance 

This prestigious award is presented by the judging panel to a technician who stands out across all categories for their exceptional contributions. 
 
Note: This award may not be presented every year and is selected from the pool of nominations received.