The Infection Prevention Society (IPS) is delighted to announce that Martin Kiernan has been awarded Honorary Membership in recognition of his outstanding contribution to infection prevention and control (IPC), his leadership within the profession, and his longstanding service to the Society.
For more than 36 years, Martin has worked to advance infection prevention and control through clinical practice, research, education and professional leadership. After training as a registered nurse, he developed a specialist interest in infection prevention in the early 1990s and went on to hold several senior roles, including Nurse Consultant and Deputy Director of Infection Prevention and Control at Southport and Ormskirk NHS Trust.
Throughout his career, Martin has championed the translation of evidence into everyday practice. His work has contributed significantly to the infection prevention evidence base, with more than 90 peer-reviewed publications and presentations delivered at conferences across the UK and internationally. His professional interests include surgical site infection prevention, environmental hygiene and hospital-acquired pneumonia, and he has played an active role in national advisory groups and guideline development initiatives.
Martin’s connection with IPS, and previously the Infection Control Nurses’ Association (ICNA), has been a defining feature of his career. He attended his first ICNA conference in 1991 and went on to serve as North-West Branch Coordinator before being elected IPS President from 2008 to 2010.
During his time with IPS, Martin also made a significant contribution to the Society’s Annual Conference through many years of service on the Scientific Programme Committee, helping to shape one of the profession’s leading educational events and supporting the development of infection prevention professionals across the UK and beyond.
Alongside his professional and academic activities, Martin is co-host of the widely respected Infection Control Matters podcast, sharing practical insights, research and discussion with infection prevention professionals around the world. He has also held honorary academic appointments in both the UK and Australia and has continued to influence practice through education, mentoring and collaboration. In 2023 he was awarded the Ayliffe Lifetime Achievement award by the Society.
Known by colleagues for his enthusiasm, accessibility and commitment to sharing knowledge, Martin remains passionate about supporting the next generation of infection prevention professionals and promoting practical, evidence-based approaches that improve patient care.
Awarding Honorary Membership recognises Martin’s exceptional contribution to infection prevention and control, his dedication to advancing professional knowledge, and his longstanding commitment to the Infection Prevention Society and its members.
Everyone at IPS extends their congratulations to Martin on this well-deserved honour and thanks him for his many years of service to the profession
