RCN International Nursing Research Conference 2026
Research Without Boundaries: Innovation, Collaboration and Global Impact
15 Sep 2026 - 17 Sep
Choose event information:
Call for abstracts is now closed. Programme coming soon.
Research Without Boundaries: Innovation, Collaboration and Global Impact
The 2026 RCN International Nursing Research Conference will celebrate the potential of nursing research to advance health across communities, systems and global contexts. As healthcare becomes increasingly interconnected and shaped by technological advances, migration, sociopolitical change and new models of care, the conference will highlight how research drives innovation, strengthens collaboration, and delivers meaningful impact.
The programme will showcase:
- research that transcends traditional boundaries, including cross-sector and cross-disciplinary studies
- innovative methodologies and emerging technologies, highlighting approaches such as digital health, artificial intelligence, co-design, and creative methods
- collaborative research that brings together clinicians, academics, communities, and global partners to accelerate discovery, enhance implementation and widen reach.
- meaningful involvement of patients, the public and communities in all stages of research
2026 Clinical Research Nursing
In 2026, we are pleased to build on last years success and continue our commitment to Clinical Research Nursing with a full day of CRN-focused content at the RCN International Nursing Research Conference. This dedicated programme will welcome all delegates and will provide an opportunity to deepen knowledge, share developments and recognise the vital contributions of nurses engaged in research delivery and leadership.
Words from the 2026 Conference Chair, Dr Gordon Hill
‘As Conference Chair, I am delighted to welcome you to Glasgow in 2026 as we explore our theme: Research Without Boundaries: Innovation, Collaboration and Global Impact. This theme reflects our commitment to showcasing research that is ambitious, creative and influential at a global level. The conference aims to stimulate discussion, inspire new partnerships and celebrate the achievements of our vibrant research community. I very much hope you will be part of this exciting gathering.’
Who should attend?
This conference is open to anyone interested in nursing and research. You can attend as a presenting or as a non-presenting delegate. It will be of interest to nurses, and colleagues in related disciplines, involved in the development and use of knowledge that impacts on nursing practice or the context in which nurses practice.
Find out more about the benefits of attending.
Please note, this is an in-person conference. If your abstract is accepted, all presenters will be expected to register to present in person.
Hear from our previous attendees:
‘Networking opportunities were great and conversations post event have already taken place.’
‘Keynote speakers were excellent and inspiring. Got some great ideas for developing in my own Trust.’
‘The positive energy and friendly atmosphere encouraged me to ask questions and engage.’
#RCNresearch26
Media partner:
Nurse Researcher is dedicated to the theme of research methodology, from innovative data collection methods, participant recruitment and data analysis techniques through to more diverse research matters and beyond.
Technology and Innovation Centre (TIC)
Strathclyde University
99 George Street
Glasgow
G1 1RD
Reception Tel: +44 (0) 141 444 7000 Website: Strathclyde University TIC website
The Technology and Innovation Centre is one of a new generation of university based, dedicated conference facilities. Award winning, the building reflects Strathclyde’s national position within the fields of advancing technology and innovation – an appropriate host for the 2025 RCN Education conference which features AI in nursing education, inclusivity and innovation in continuing professional development.
Getting to the venue
By Train
The closest railway stations are:
National Rail Services
- Queen Street (0.4 miles)
- Glasgow Central (0.9 miles)
Local Services
- High Street (0.1 miles)
- Queen Street (0.4 miles)
- Argyle Street (0.6 miles)
- Glasgow Central (0.9 miles)
- Buchanan Street Underground is an 8-minute walk
Bus
- Buchanan Bus Station is 0.6 miles away, with frequent services to Glasgow International Airport.
- A direct bus connection to Glasgow International Airport is also available from North Hanover St, outside Queen St Station, every 15 minutes. This is about an 8-minute walk away from the TIC and the single fare is approximately £10.00. Depending on traffic, the journey time is around 20 to 30 minutes.
Local Airport
The nearest major airport is Glasgow International Airport.
By Car
Low Emission Zone
From 1 June 2023, a Low Emission Zone (LEZ) came into force in Glasgow. All vehicles entering the city centre zone area must meet the less-polluting emission standards or face a penalty charge. There are some exemptions. Please visit Glasgow City Council’s webpage for full details.
Sat Nav: G1 1RD (Main entrance, Technology & Innovation Centre)
Local Car Parks and discount availability
- Discounted parking is available nearby – the 24hr Duke Street Car Park, G4 0UW (0.3 miles) currently offers an all-day special rate at £6.00 or you can validate your ticket at TIC Reception for the capped rate of £6.00 per day
- Download the ParkPass app for discounted parking at 24hr NCP Montrose Street, G1 1RS (0.2 miles). Register with the code L6PN4FX. Scan the QR code with the app on entry to the car park rather than taking a ticket to receive your discount - visit NCP George Street for prices via the ParkPass app.
- Discounted parking is available at Q-Park Candleriggs, G1 1LH (0.4 miles), if pre-booked online. Please enter code TICUOS20 to receive a 20% discount at point of booking. The car park is open 07:00-00:00, Monday to Sunday.
- The most suitable car park for those with accessibility needs is the 24hr Duke Street Car Park.
- Electric vehicle charging points are available at 24hr Duke Street Car Park and Q-Park Candleriggs.
- Blue badge holders may park free of charge at on-street parking meters and on-street pay and display areas – please visit Glasgow City Council’s website for more information.
Please note this Information is currently being updated. Prices quoted correct at June 2023.
Key diary dates
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December 2025 |
Call for abstracts open |
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Monday 9 March 2026, Midnight |
Call for abstracts close Please note there will be no call for late breaking research |
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Wednesday 11 March 2026 |
Abstracts reviewed by International Scientific Advisory Panel (ISAP) |
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Friday 1 May 2026 |
Outcome of abstract reviews communicated to authors Conference programme published Presenter rate booking opens |
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Monday 29 June 2026 |
Presenter rate booking deadline
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Criteria for abstract selection
View the criteria for abstract selection
View conference terms and conditions
Types of conference presentation:
- Oral concurrent paper
A concurrent paper is presented orally. The presenter is allocated a maximum of 20 minutes to present their paper followed by 5 minutes for Q&A and discussion.
- Flash talks
Flash talks are strictly-timed 5 minute oral presentations delivered in a main plenary session (i.e. to the whole conference) and provide the opportunity for your findings to reach a large number of delegates but in a concise form.
- Poster presentation (one day)
Exhibited on one day of the conference, posters are visual displays of material. Poster displays reach a wide audience and are suited to the presentation of factual data, such as project design or findings. Posters should be visually stimulating in design and convey clear aims and outcomes.
Presenters are required to be available on the day of their presentation during the lunch break, to participate in a facilitated, interactive poster tour.
- Visual Presentation with Expert Review (ViPER)
A ViPER is an oral poster presentation. The presenter is allocated a maximum of 10 minutes to present their poster. An expert in the field responds (max. 5 minutes) and then facilitates a discussion (up to 10 minutes).
- Symposium
A symposium is a presentation of between three and five papers with a shared focus. Depending on the number of papers, the duration of a symposium is 60 to 90 minutes. Each presenter is allocated a maximum of 20 minutes to present their paper followed by 5 minutes for discussion.
‘Best of the best’
Following the success of the last three years 'Best of the best' abstracts, we will be inviting a select number of top-rated abstracts to present in a plenary session. The winning abstracts will be granted a complimentary one-day pass for the day they are presenting. Winners will be responsible for their own travel arrangements.
Criteria for the top rated abstract
Highest scoring abstract after peer-review.
Where more than one abstract has the same score (or where it is excluded from consideration for one of the reasons below) the committee will select from 5 highest scoring abstracts based upon:
- Fit with conference theme
- Significance to nursing priority areas
- Originality
- Potential for impact
Reasons for exclusion
Previous abstract winner at RCN INRC
Presenting author: keynote presenter
Criteria for the top rated student abstract
Student abstracts will be identified by a tick box on the top of the page 'Step 3. Authors' on the AMS submission form and considered separately. The same criteria will be applied (the exclusions not being applicable).
Applications for the early career researcher scientific committee member role have now closed.
The outcome will be communicated in due course.
Hear from Aasia Rajpoot, 2025 Early Career Researcher:
‘This has been one of the most valuable and inspiring experiences of my PhD journey so far.
From the very first meeting, I was made to feel genuinely valued. The whole team was exceptionally supportive, guiding me at every step and ensuring I felt comfortable and included throughout. Their friendliness and approachability gave me the confidence to contribute meaningfully, while also helping me overcome doubts and recognise my own potential.
Being part of the Scientific Planning Committee gave me a unique insight into the behind-the-scenes work of organising such a big academic event. I developed a much deeper understanding of the abstract review process, programme development, and the collaborative effort required to deliver a successful conference like this. Insights and skills I gained from this experience will carry forward in my academic career.
Attending the conference itself was equally rewarding. I had the opportunity to present my research, collaborate during the Early Career Researcher and Professoriate Networking Event: Meet the 'Prof', and lead the ECR social event afterwards, and engage with peers from across the UK and beyond.
This opportunity has left me feeling inspired, more confident, and deeply connected to the research community. I am truly grateful for this chance to grow as a researcher and to contribute to such a welcoming and supportive team.’
Timescales
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9 March 2026, midnight |
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11 March 2026 |
Abstracts allocated to members of the ISAP
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18 March 2026, midnight |
Deadline to complete reviews
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General delegate booking is now open.
Presenter rate booking opens after outcomes have been communicated, on 1 May. The presenter rate booking deadline is 29 JUNE 2026. Presenter bookings after this date will not be eligible for discount and are at risk of withdrawal. All presenters must attend the conference in-person.
Presenter rates cannot be booked online. To book the presenter rate please contact RCN Event Registrations on 02920 546460. Please have your abstract reference number to hand. Alternatively, follow the invoicing instructions below the fees table.
International delegates
- All international delegates attending this event are entitled to the RCN member rate.
- International student nurses (pre-registration only) are also eligible for a 40% discount on the RCN member rate.
- Refer to discount section for exclusions and conditions*.View our visa application policy for international delegates
Not an RCN member? Join today to qualify for preferential conference fees.
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Member type |
Conference fees |
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Presenter rates (available 1 May - 29 June) |
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Fee |
VAT |
Total |
Fee |
VAT |
Total |
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Member (1 day fee) |
£ 245.00 |
£ 49.00 |
£ 294.00 |
£ 212.50 |
£ 42.50 |
£ 255.00 |
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Non-member (1 day fee ) |
£ 316.00 |
£ 63.20 |
£ 379.20 |
£ 277.00 |
£ 55.40 |
£ 332.40 |
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Member (2 day fee ) |
£ 320.00 |
£ 64.00 |
£ 384.00 |
£ 285.00 |
£ 57.00 |
£ 342.00 |
|
Non-member (2 day fee) |
£ 413.00 |
£ 82.60 |
£ 495.60 |
£ 369.00 |
£ 73.80 |
£ 442.80 |
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Member (3 day fee)
|
£ 395.00 |
£ 79.00 |
£ 474.00 |
£ 335.75 |
£ 67.15 |
£ 402.90 |
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Non- member (3 day fee) |
£ 510.00 |
£ 102.00 |
£ 612.00 |
£ 433.50 |
£ 86.70 |
£ 520.20 |
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Discounted rates |
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Member: Pre-reg student, Retired, health practitioner (1 day) |
£ 75.00 |
£ 15.00 |
£ 90.00 |
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Member: Pre-reg student, Retired, health practitioner (2 day) |
£150.00 |
£30.00 |
£180.00 |
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Member: Pre-reg student, Retired, health practitioner (3 day) |
£225.00 |
£45.00 |
£270.00 |
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Member: RCN representatives, forum steering committee (1 day / 25% discount) |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
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Member: RCN representatives, forum steering committee (2 day / 25% discount) |
N/A |
N/A |
N/A |
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Member: RCN representatives, forum steering committee (3 day / 25% discount) |
£ 296.25 |
£ 59.25 |
£ 355.50 |
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Conditions and exclusions
Please note: discounts cannot be accumulated or redeemed when booking online. Please contact RCN Events Registration to book a discounted place. |
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Catering during the conference programme and conference materials are provided within the conference fee. Travel, accommodation and catering outside of the conference programme are not included in the conference fee.
To make a booking
Please note our booking lines are only open Monday to Friday.
Online bookings are the easiest and fastest way to book 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Bookings can be made by phone with payment by credit card/Maestro, by calling
+44 (0) 2920 546460. Lines are open from 9.30am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Bookings can also be made by post with a downloaded booking form with credit card details or payment/remittance advice posted to: Event registrations, PO Box 2329, Cardiff CF23 8YZ.
Invoice payment
To pay by invoice you must send all the below to eventsreg@rcn.org.uk
- A copy of the official Purchase Order document from your organisation or company, addressed to supplier: Royal College of Nursing, 20 Cavendish Square, London. W1G 0RN. We are unable to process your order without it, requisition orders are not accepted.
- Your Finance department/accounts payable contact email address to receive an electronic copy of the invoice from us
- A completed RCN Events Booking Form for each delegate in the booking
Important - Please don’t send booking forms without PDF copies of Purchase Orders or vice versa, as we will not be able to complete your booking without them.
Once the invoice has been raised, you will then receive confirmation of your delegate booking on the event requested. Invoices are to be paid within 30 days of the invoice being issued.
We always endeavour to process your booking as quickly as possible, however, this process can sometimes take up to 10 working days.
So that we can process your booking quickly, please send all the booking forms and the Purchase Order to us together on the same email.
Group bookings - please send all the completed booking forms and the Purchase Order to us, together on the same email.
Is this conference for me?
You can attend this conference as a presenting or as a non-presenting delegate.
Attending this conference provides a quality assured opportunity to improve nursing practice, learn, network, and discuss and debate the challenges facing the future nursing workforce.
It will be of particular interest to all current and aspiring nurses, and colleagues in related disciplines, involved in the development and use of knowledge that impacts on nursing practice or the context in which nurses’ practice.
The conference provides the opportunity to:
- Hear how research is addressing contemporary nursing issues from inspirational keynote speakers
- Share and learn about cutting edge innovation in research methods, policy and management
- Benefit from inclusive patient and public involvement
- Showcase your research and your employer on an international stage
- Engage in supportive and constructive critical debate
- Discuss the impact of research on health and social care policy and nursing practice
- Consider how you can use research findings to inform yours and colleagues’ nursing practice
- Network with like-minded colleagues and make new contacts – from those starting out in their careers through to distinguished keynote speakers
- Participate in a lively social programme
- Engage with exhibitors
- Accrue up to 27 hours of continuing professional development - for UK nurses CPD counts towards your revalidation. Find out more about CPD.
Need a helping hand with securing time off or funding to attend? See our hints and tips and template letter, to aid justification of attendance to your employer.
Five Research Development Awards available!
We are delighted to be offering five Research Development Awards to cover full registration fees for the International Nursing Research Conference, 15-17 September 2026 in Glasgow, UK, along with travel and accommodation expenses up to the value of £335!
This initiative is being funded by the Royal College of Nursing, to offer the opportunity for nurses, midwives, nursing support workers, students and people in patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) roles - particularly those who would not otherwise have the opportunity – to participate fully with research, international experts, and contemporary innovations within nursing.
These funded places are open to all nurses, midwives, nursing support workers and students as well as peer support workers and those engaged in research through patient and public inclusion and engagement (PPIE). Applicants will be expected to engage with the full conference programme taking place between 15-17 September and will be required to confirm their commitment to full attendance as part of the application process. Successful applicants will also be required to provide a supporting statement from their employer or institution confirming that they are fully authorised to attend.
We would be particularly interested in receiving applications from:
• Professionals with protected characteristics
• Students (undergraduate or postgraduate)
• Early career researchers (within 5 years of being awarded a PhD)
• Early career professionals (within 3 years of graduating from health-related degree)
• People with lived experience engaged and/or involved in research through patient and public inclusion and engagement (PPIE) roles
• People receiving and/or would be eligible to receive hardship funds
• People from low and middle income countries (LMICs) as outlined by The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
Apply for a Research Development Award
FAQS
How will the INRC 2026 Research Development Awards be granted?
The INRC 2026 Research Development Awards will be granted through an open application process. All applications meeting the eligibility criteria will be entered into a prize draw.
How many Research Development Awards are awarded each year?
We have five awards available for the 2026 International Nursing Research Conference
How do I apply?
Please apply using the online INRC 2026 Research Development Award application form
When is the deadline for submitting applications?
The deadline for submitting applications will be Friday, 8 May at 5pm.
Am I eligible to apply?
Applications are welcome from nurses, midwives, nursing support workers, students and people with lived experience in patient and public inclusion and engagement (PPIE) roles. Applicants will be expected to engage with the full conference programme taking place between 15-17 September and will be required to confirm their commitment to full attendance as part of the application process.
You do not need to be a member of the RCN to apply, although we do encourage RCN membership for access to a range of research and education learning resources, information and to be kept up to date with news and events. Further information on becoming a member of the RCN can be found at Join the RCN | Membership | Royal College of Nursing
What do the Research Development Awards cover?
Conference fees: The Research Development Award will cover full delegate fees. This includes access to the full International Nursing Research Conference 2026 programme taking place between 15-17 September 2026. This will include lunch and refreshments during the hours of the conference.
Travel and accommodation: The RCN will reimburse travel and accommodation costs up to £335, in line with the RCN expenses policy. Successful applicants must book and pay for their own travel and accommodation by 31 July. An expense claim form, along with all relevant receipts, should be submitted to research@rcn.org.uk no later than 30 days following the conference, for costs up to the value of £335 to be reimbursed.
Requirements if I am successful.
Successful applicants will be required to provide a supporting statement from their employer or institution confirming that they are fully authorised to attend. Supporting statements should be provided either on letter headed paper, or as an email including relevant signatories e.g. from line managers, personal tutors, heads of school or supervisors etc., and submitted to research@rcn.org.uk, by 31 May.
Workshop and networking event proposals are now welcome for the RCN International Nursing Research Conference 2026.
The submission deadline is Sunday 19 April 2026.
To submit a proposal, please complete the online submission form
Criteria / T&Cs for submission:
1. All workshop/networking contributions should be about a research related issue.
Workshops should align with the conference theme: Research Without Boundaries: Innovation, Collaboration and Global Impact
2. Workshops have been allocated 45 minutes and are provisionally scheduled for the mornings of Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 September.
3. The workshop programme must complement the conference scientific programme (where all submissions are subject to peer review).
4. Proposals for networking events which are celebratory in nature, or which offer networking opportunities for like-minded delegates are welcome. Workshop events must add value for conference delegates.
5. Proposals submitted by commercial organisations will be considered and subject to approval. A member of the RCN Corporate Relations team will contact the submitter to discuss financial arrangements and branding opportunities.
6. All workshop presenters and networking event leaders must register for the conference. The submitter is responsible for co-ordinating the registration of co-presenters (if applicable).
7. Workshop presenters and networking event leads up to a maximum of five are eligible for the reduced presenter rate. The deadline for booking the reduced presenter rates is 29 June 2026.
Download criteria / T&Cs document
If you would like to discuss your proposal before submitting, please contact the RCN Research Conference Team in the first instance with details of your proposal, at: research@rcn.org.uk.
This conference and exhibition is an unrivalled opportunity for you to connect directly with nurse researchers and clinical research nurses from across the UK, working at a range of levels in the university, NHS, public or independent and voluntary sectors.
There are a number of ways you can get involved, from networking to raise your profile to tailored commercial packages to help achieve specific objectives. Please contact the exhibitions team on 02076473959 or email exhibitions@rcn.org.uk.
Delegates are also welcome to book alternative accommodation via their preferred platforms.
Email: Research@rcn.org.uk
Tel: +44 (0)207 6473577
If your query relates to a booking, please contact the Registration Team directly:
Email: eventsreg@rcn.org.uk
Tel: +44 (0)29 2054 6460
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Page last updated - 11/03/2026
