The British Psychological Society
  • My BPS

    • Technical Support in Psychological Research Award

    The awards recognise the valuable role played by technicians in supporting research in psychology (research award) and the student learning experience within their psychology departments (teaching award).

    The awards are presented in partnership between the BPS and the Association of Technical Staff in Psychology (ATSiP) and take place annually.

    Recipients of the award will receive a commemorative certificate.

    Nominees and nominators do not need to be members of the BPS or ATSiP.

    Deadlines

    Nominations open on 18 August 2025 at 9:00am

    Nominations close on 26 October 2025 at 11:59pm

    Assessment criteria

    Assessors will consider these dimensions when evaluating the fulfilment of the two chosen criteria:

    • Extent of contribution to psychological knowledge
    • Resources saved (time, money, sustainability)
    • Learning that is facilitated

    Assessment criteria are to be applied to the Research and Teaching Award.

    Criteria

    Research Award

    The BPS/ATSiP Technical Support in Psychological Research Award recognises the valuable role that technicians play in supporting research within their psychology departments.

    Candidates should provide evidence of excellence relating to at least two of the following criteria:

    1. Areas of skill - the development of new or use of existing technology in particular areas of psychology (e.g., developmental) or particular kinds of technology (e.g. podcasts) to enhance psychology student research skill development.
    2. Interpersonal/communication skills - Interaction with staff and students.
    3. Instruction/research skills - the development of new research materials; departmental systems to support the student research experience; support for lecturers/researchers.
    4. Problem-solving skills - the development of new or use of existing technology to develop solutions to problems relating to the development of psychology research skills.
    5. Innovative skills - the development of new technology or the innovative use of existing technology, to enhance the student research experience.
    6. Special skills - research or other work concerning the use of new or existing technology that has enhanced the psychology student research experience.
    7. Project management skills - experience in team leading and liaising with a range of stakeholders (both within and outside of the department).
    8. Publications - evidence of publications (through a conference poster, conference presentation, journal article, or official technical research report).

    Teaching Award

    The BPS/ATSiP Technical Support in Psychological Teaching Award recognises the valuable role that technicians play in supporting the student learning experience within their psychology departments.

    Candidates should provide evidence of excellence relating to at least two of the following criteria:

    1. Technological Skill – the development of new, or use of existing technology in particular areas of psychology or particular kinds of technology to enhance the student learning experience.  
    2. Interpersonal communication skills – interaction with staff and students.
    3. Instruction/teaching skills – the development of learning materials; departmental systems to support the student learning experience; support for lecturers.  
    4. Admin/finance skills – the use of new or existing technology to improve administrative procedures or reduce costs relating to the student learning experience; management of resources.
    5. Problem-solving – the development of new or use of existing technology to develop solutions to problems relating to psychology learning and teaching.  
    6. Innovative skills – the development of new technology, or the innovative use of existing technology, to enhance the student learning experience.  
    7. Special skills – research or other work concerning the use of new or existing technology that has enhanced the student learning experience.

    How to apply

    You should complete an electronic nomination form.

    Submit a nomination

    Single or team nominations should include a narrative report evidencing at least two of the criteria as outlined in the 'Criteria' section above. This should be a maximum of 1,000 words and include testimonials from staff or students as appropriate.

    We will accept nominations from the Head of Department, line manager or equivalent.

    Individuals may also nominate themselves. 

    NOTE: If you self-nominate you must ensure your Head of Department, line manager or equivalent provides written support for the nomination (around 200 words). You must also include endorsements by other academic/research/ teaching/staff/students.

    The deadline for submissions is 26 October 2025 at 11:59pm

    If you have any questions, please email [email protected].

    Please note: We cannot accept late nominations. Application criteria and eligibility are subject to change. Any changes will be applied when the award is open to application.