Robots at Work and Play – NI Science Festival 2026

21 Feb 2026

“Robots at Work and Play” was a resounding success! The MAvRiC team hosted a full-day event at the LG Foyer, Ulster University Belfast Campus, as part of the Northern Ireland Science Festival on Saturday, 21st February 2026.

This academic-led and student-run event welcomed around 200 visitors across the five-hour session, drawing in families, students, and industry professionals. The event showcased the breadth of robotics research and technology available at MAvRiC, with hands-on activities that engaged visitors of all ages.

Highlights of the day included:

Live demonstrations of collaborative robotic arms (cobots), where visitors could witness and interact with precision robot manipulation up close
A quadruped robot demonstration that drew large and enthusiastic crowds
3D printing showcases, with 3D printers creating objects from everyday items through to industrial components in real time
A miniature robot-building workshop for children, proving a huge hit with younger visitors

The event also featured an industry showcase from Elite Electronic Systems Ltd, who demonstrated non-destructive testing (NDT) technologies alongside the MAvRiC team, highlighting the real-world applications of the lab’s research across aerospace, manufacturing, and materials development.

A big thank you to all the staff and students who helped make the event such a success, and to everyone who came along on the day!