It’s an exciting time for pharmacy research following the NHS England report on clinical academic pathways for pharmacy professionals and the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded pharmacy incubator. These offer a national focus for pharmacy research and an opportunity to stimulate debate about how we can expand research capacity and capability in pharmacy teams.

This session offers a brief update on current research initiatives and will hear from an enthusiastic early career researcher about the highs and lows of applying for research awards. We welcome anyone who has an interest in research as an individual, manager, academic or policy maker – no experience necessary! You will have the chance to ask questions about research and can sign up to be linked in with a pharmacy research group in your area.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the difference between audit, quality improvement and research

2. Know how to find information about current policy and initiatives relating to pharmacy research

3. Understand one pharmacist's journey to a PhD

4. Know who to contact in your area to find out about research groups