Rising Star (Early Career)

What is this award for? 

This award recognises individuals who are not only excelling in their role but are actively improving how IPC is delivered. Judges are looking for practitioners who demonstrate initiative, inspire those around them and show the potential to become future leaders within the profession. 

What are the judges looking for? 

Demonstrable impact early in career 

Successful nominees will provide evidence of improvements in areas such as: 

• Patient safety. 
• Infection reduction. 
• Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). 
• Staff compliance with IPC practices. 

Applications should include measurable outcomes where possible, for example: 

• Reduced healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). 
• Improved hand hygiene compliance. 
• Reduced device-related infections. 
• Increased uptake of education and training. 
• Improved service efficiencies. 

Innovation and initiative 

Judges are looking for individuals who have gone beyond simply doing their role well by improving the way IPC is delivered. 

This may include: 

• Introducing new approaches to IPC practice. 
• Developing education initiatives or pathways. 
• Implementing digital tools. 
• Leading quality improvement projects. 
• Using surveillance techniques in new ways. 

Leadership potential 

Strong applications will demonstrate how nominees are already influencing practice despite being early in their careers. 

Examples may include: 

• Leading projects or workstreams. 
• Mentoring peers or students. 
• Driving behavioural change. 
• Acting as someone others turn to for advice and guidance. 

Collaboration and influence 

Nominees should demonstrate: 

• Strong multidisciplinary working. 
• Positive influence on frontline teams. 
• The ability to engage a range of stakeholders, including clinicians, estates teams, domestic services, executives and patients. 

Professional behaviours 

Applications should include evidence, supported by a testimonial from a line manager or senior professional, that the nominee demonstrates: 

• Enthusiasm and initiative. 
• Resilience and credibility. 
• Curiosity and reflective practice. 
• A commitment to raising standards and motivating others. 

 IPS values 

Alongside the award-specific criteria, judges will consider how nominations reflect the values at the heart of IPS and our commitment to supporting the infection prevention community. This includes evidence of how nominees: 

• Support and empower the workforce to deliver safe, high-quality care. 
• Improve evidence-based IPC practice, surveillance and outcomes. 
• Engage diverse communities and promote equitable access and inclusion. 
• Create impact through leadership, education, collaboration and policy influence.