A logo with the words 'NI Research Professionals Network' in red and blue text, with a network icon of connected circles at the bottom.

The Northern Ireland Research Professionals Network connects research and innovation managers and administrators across the region to share experiences, address common challenges, and strengthen professional networks.

Join a network of dedicated research professionals making a difference in Northern Ireland.

What We Offer:

  • Networking

  • Knowledge Sharing

  • Peer Support

  • Events

A speaker presenting to a conference room full of attendees sitting at round tables, some taking notes or using laptops.

NIRPN offers opportunities for knowledge sharing, peer support, and events on key topics such as enabling research impact and enhancing regional connectivity, and provides a platform for engagement with colleagues from across the research and innovation landscape. The network aims to strengthen capacity across the sector and improve recognition for the vital role of research professionals.

Upcoming Event: International Partnerships

Date: 23rd October 2025
Time: 09:30-14:00
Location: Assembly Buildings, Belfast

Join us for our next NIRPN event, ‘International partnerships - global reach of NI research’.

Hear from Dajana Dzanovic (UUKi) on how research professionals can support the UK’s global research agenda, and from Ann Campbell (Digital Science) on the current and future global reach of NI research. The event will also feature a facilitated panel discussion with individuals who have led international projects, sharing insights on opportunities, challenges, and how to navigate them. The day concludes with lunch, networking, and interactive roundtables.

Organisational Insight Exchange Programme

NIRPN is excited to pilot the new Organisational Insight Exchange Programme.

This pilot initiative is designed to connect research and innovation professionals across organisations and sectors. By promoting knowledge exchange, sharing best practice, and enhancing sector-wide understanding, the programme aims to support career growth and mobility within Northern Ireland’s research and innovation landscape.

This pilot has now been completed. We are currently reviewing the outcomes and feedback, and will use these insights to shape the next iteration of the programme. Communications will be shared with members once the programme is open again to expressions of interest.

Previous Events

  • Regional Meeting of Research and Innovation Professionals in NI

    16th June 2023

    This inaugural event provided attendees with opportunities to network with their peers, and featured contextual talks and case studies that offered valuable local and national perspectives on research and innovation.

  • Research Bureaucracy: Implementing the Tickell Review

    8th December 2023

    Attendees heard from policy leaders and university representatives, discussed reducing research bureaucracy and enhancing innovation. The agenda featured talks, a case study, breakout discussions on local challenges, and networking opportunities.

  • Enabling Impact and Innovation from Research in NI and beyond

    20th September 2024

    Experienced research professionals shared their experiences of collaborating with stakeholders to drive impact and innovation in NI. Attendees heard from the Department for the Economy as well as peers working in policy, knowledge exchange, innovation and culture.

  • Regional Balance and Connectivity


    31st January 2025

    Our January event in Derry/Londonderry —our first time meeting outside Belfast—brought together research professionals to explore how interconnected networks across Northern Ireland can drive impactful R&I.

NIRPN Organising Committee

  • Dr Sarah Baccianti, Research Manager, National Museums NI

  • Chris Browne, Head of Research Strategy and Engagement, Queen’s University Belfast

  • Oisin Cahill, Enterprise and Design Manager, Invest NI

  • Freda Casey, Research Culture Manager, Ulster University

  • Dr Alex Chacko, Head of innovation and Impact, Ulster University

  • Dr Alice Dubois, Research Culture Manager, Queen’s University Belfast

  • Glenda Fleming, Deputy Director, Medicines Optimisation and Innovation Centre, HSCNI

  • Dr Imelda Haran, Knowledge Exchange Manager, Open University

  • Orlaith Hurley, Head of Research Management, Ulster University

  • Dr Nikki Kernaghan, Head of Global Research Partnerships, Queen’s University Belfast

  • Lynda Mahon, Centre for Doctoral Training Operations Manager, Queen’s University Belfast

  • Fiona McElroy, Head of Research Support, AFBI