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Developing Talent for a Stronger Robotics Ecosystem

Building skills for the future of european robotics

ROBO-KNOT supports researchers and R&I staff in strengthening their skills through a structured framework that combines learning, hands-on experience, and innovation-focused training before, during, and after secondments.

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A Structured Pathway for Growth and Innovation

ROBO-KNOT Skills Development Framework

The ROBO-KNOT Skills Development Framework (SDF) ensures that every participant enhances their robotics skills, innovation capacity, and career progression before, during, and after their secondment.

Secondee skills development path:

Planning for Success Before the Secondment

Pre-Secondment Steps

Before the secondment begins, participants engage in various preparatory activities to ensure they are ready for the experience:

SDF orientation & code of conduct

  • Welcome kit
  • Roles & expectations
  • Ethics, GDPR, security

Skills Baseline & Gap Analysis

  • Short self-assessment
  • Review of experience & goals

Advancement Plan & Personal Development Plan drafting

  • Set 3–5 SMART goals
  • Plan activities & supervision

Host project co design

  • Set 3–5 SMART goals
  • Plan activities & supervision

Logistics & readiness

  • Admin/mobility paperwork
  • Pre-start checklist

Micro modules (as needed)

  • IP/IPR, ethics, cybersecurity
  • Safety, intercultural skills, optional language refresher

Mentor assignment

  • Academic mentor + industry mentor
  • Clarify feedback channels

Immersive Learning

Hands-On Research & Growth

The participants dive into real-world projects, gaining hands-on experience and applying their skills in a practical environment.

For Researchers

  • Doing Research – Disciplinary Depth: Engage in hands-on robotics projects and job shadowing in real environments.
  • Working with Others – Networks & Teams: Participate in cross-functional projects, industry days, and receive 360° feedback.
  • Self-Management – Planning & Growth: Guided by their PDP, participants work on self-driven growth through mentoring and reflective practices.

For R&I Support Staff:

  • Expanding Networks: Build links with accelerators, tech centers, and EU initiatives.
  • Building Relationships: Structure long-term academia–industry collaborations and service offers.

Continued Growth and Innovation Post-Secondment

After the Secondment: Advanced Training & Knowledge Transfer

Upon completing their secondments, participants continue their development through targeted follow-up training courses designed to maximize impact at their home institutions.

  • SPIN: Explore: An online program covering problem-solution fit, market discovery, IP/IPR, storytelling, and impact readiness.
  • Robotics Commercialisation Bootcamps: In-person, week-long programs focused on design thinking, productisation, certification/standards, and investor/customer sessions.
  • Innovation Leadership Bootcamp (Brussels): Advanced skills training designed to help participants drive knowledge valorisation, partnerships, and internal change upon their return.

Outcomes

Upon completion of their secondments, participants will have:

Documented Evidence of Learning

Portfolio items, demos, case studies, and tangible results from their secondment.

Updated CAP/PDP

Verified completion and progress, with clear evidence of skills development.

Pathway to Knowledge Exploitation

Clear routes for applying knowledge gained, including pilots, agreements, and follow-up project proposals.