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IPS Research/Quality Improvement Project (QIP) Grants

The IPS Quality Improvement Project (QIP) & Research Grants support members to deliver high-quality, practice-based projects that improve infection prevention and control (IPC).

These grants are a vital part of the IPS Research Strategy, supporting three key goals: 

  • Generate high-quality research and QIPs for practice 
  • Engage in collaborative research with academic and clinical partners 
  • Develop research and QIP skills among IPS members 

Each year, the IPS Research and Development (R&D) Committee allocates funding to support small research and quality improvement projects. 

What kinds of projects are funded?  

We’re looking to fund projects designed to improve any aspect of IPC practice and identify better ways of working, whatever the setting. Examples include (but aren’t limited to):  

  • Digital working improvements.  
  • Patient safety initiatives.  
  • Sustainability-related improvements.  
  • Behavioural science investigations.  
  • Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-related research.  

This list reflects the inclusive scope of practice-based research and QIPs supported by the IPS R&D Committee. 

Eligibility

Applications are encouraged from IPS members at all career stages – from new entrants to established IPC professionals. Novice investigators (with little or no research/QIP experience) are welcome, provided an experienced investigator is included as a supervisor or co-applicant. Lead applicants must be current IPS members for at least 12 months prior to applying and maintain membership for the duration of the grant. Individuals who hold an officer role with any IPS Branch, Special Interest Group, Committee, or sit on the Board of Trustees are not eligible to apply for a grant.

Requirements

There is an expectation that successful applicants will: produce reports on project progress throughout the funding period, inform the R&D Committee of any mitigating circumstances or proposed changes to the study that may impact the grant awarded, and maintain accurate financial records and provide evidence of expenditure when requested

Grant Criteria 

All applications are independently peer-reviewed and final decisions are made by the IPS R&D Committee. 

Applications will be assessed against the following criteria:

Eligibility

  • Lead applicant must be an IPS member for at least 12 months prior to application and maintain membership throughout the grant period  
  • Appropriate academic qualification and/or relevant QIP or research experience  
  • Conflict of interest restrictions apply (IPS officers and Trustees are not eligible to apply)  

Originality and scientific merit

  • Clear originality or justified replication value  
  • Appropriate study design  
  • Clear data analysis plan  
  • Ethical considerations addressed where applicable  
  • Demonstrable impact on IPC practice and/or patient care 

Resources and feasibility

  • Appropriate and justified budget  
  • Project achievable within timeframe  
  • Any additional funding/support declared  

Project management and supervision

  • Appropriate supervision for novice investigators  
  • Clear project management plan  
  • Risk assessment and contingency planning 

Apply today

Download our application form and send it to Lynne Duncan at [email protected]. Applications for the 2026/27 grants are now open until 10am, Friday 29 May 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.