The Surgical Robot Challenge 2026 will take place as part of the Hamlyn Symposium on Medical Robotics programme in London. The competition is hosted by the Hamlyn Centre at Imperial College London and is a key highlight of the annual symposium focused on cutting-edge medical robotics innovation.
The event is scheduled for June 2026, aligned with the main symposium week in London. The wider symposium activities will run from 23–26 June 2026, with workshops and conference sessions taking place at Imperial College London and associated venues in South Kensington and central London.
The Surgical Robot Challenge is an international competition showcasing new surgical robotics technologies. It invites teams from universities and research groups worldwide to present their innovations. The goal is to demonstrate how robotic systems can improve surgical procedures and patient outcomes.
The competition is open to academic institutions globally, and submissions must usually be linked to an academic partner. Industry teams may also participate if they collaborate with a university or research institution.
Participants are required to submit a two-minute video demonstration of their surgical robot concept, along with a short presentation. Selected teams may be invited to showcase their work in London during the symposium.
A key focus in 2026 is innovation, practical application, and design quality. Special emphasis is placed on solutions that improve surgical outcomes, such as reduced recovery time, less pain, and lower surgical risk.
Another important theme is frugal innovation, especially technologies that could benefit low- and middle-income countries. Devices are encouraged to be affordable, scalable, and adaptable to resource-limited healthcare environments.
The challenge is assessed based on three main criteria: application, innovation, and design. Judges look for both strong technical execution and real-world clinical relevance.
Winners of the competition typically receive recognition at the symposium awards ceremony and may also be invited to present live demonstrations at the event in London.
The Annual Hamlyn Symposium on Medical Robotics is the flagship event of the Hamlyn Centre for Robotic Surgery at Imperial College London. It serves as a global forum for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of pioneering research and innovation in the field of medical robotics.
Bringing together a vibrant international community of surgeons, engineers, scientists, and industry leaders, the symposium provides a unique platform to explore the latest developments shaping the future of robotic and digital surgery.
22.04.2026.
