The Infection Prevention Society (IPS) has opened applications for its 2026/27 Research and Quality Improvement Project (QIP) Grants.
The grants support IPS members to carry out small, practical projects that improve infection prevention and control (IPC) in real-world settings.
Applications are open from 1 May to 29 May 2026.
The funding is part of IPS’s wider research work, which aims to improve IPC practice, support collaboration between clinicians and academics, and help members build their research and quality improvement skills.
The grants can be used for a wide range of projects that improve IPC practice. This could include work on:
- Digital tools and ways of working
- Patient safety improvements
- Sustainability in healthcare
- Behavioural science approaches
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
Open to members at all stages
The grants are open to IPS members at all career stages, including those new to research or quality improvement. Novice investigators are actively encouraged to apply, provided they are supported by an experienced supervisor or co-applicant.
Lead applicants must have been IPS members for at least 12 months and remain members throughout the duration of the grant. Members holding officer roles within IPS Branches, Special Interest Groups, Committees, or the Board of Trustees are not eligible to apply.
Expert review and funding decisions
Applications will be independently peer-reviewed, with final funding decisions made by the IPS Research and Development (R&D) Committee. Proposals will be assessed on originality, scientific merit, feasibility, impact on IPC practice, and strength of project planning and supervision.
Successful applicants will be expected to provide progress reports, maintain clear financial records, and work closely with the R&D Committee throughout the project period.
Dr Maura Smiddy, Research and Development Committee Coordinator oversees the IPS grants programme, said the funding plays a crucial role in supporting both innovation, professional development and healthcare quality improvement across the IPC community: “These grants give people the chance to turn ideas into real improvements in practice. They support members to build skills and confidence in research and quality improvement and improve patient care. I would encourage anyone with an idea or quality improvement project to apply.”
How to apply
Applications for the 2026/27 round are now open and must be submitted by 29 May 2026.
To apply, complete the application form and send it to [email protected].Top of Form
