Clinical Research Nursing is a relatively new area of nursing specialisation in Ireland, but has grown exponentially in the past two decades. Following the opening of the first purpose built clinical research centre by RCSI in 2000, efforts were made to establish an Irish Research Nurses Association (IRNA) to provide mutual support for research nurses in different locations, but the fragmented nature of the research nurse role made it difficult to sustain. Efforts to establish an Irish clinical research infrastructure, largely supported by the HRB, provided opportunities for research nurses to reengage with each other, and, supported by the Dublin Centre for Clinical Research (DCCR), the dormant IRNA was re-established in October 2008. Renamed the Irish Research Nurses Network (IRNN), the group has now been in operation for 10 years. While membership of the IRNN Committee is voluntary, activities have been enabled and supported by the Directors of Irish Clinical Research Facilities (CRFs), initially supported by DCCR and more recently by Clinical Research Coordination Ireland (HRB-CRCI). IRNN committee members have also been drawn from other clinical research settings from across Ireland, including Northern Ireland, leading to a truly national perspective on clinical research in Ireland. Availability of protected time for IRNN committee members to dedicate to IRNN activities is limited, however, and commitment to IRNN engagement can take a toll on personal time and resources. Clinical Research Nurses (CRN) are pivotal members of the research team, with roles ranging from provision of nursing care to research participants and data collection to study coordination and full research project management. CRN posts are supported to varying degrees at institutional level, or through study specific grants. While some research posts rest within hospital units most are externally funded, and there is little integration of research nursing into mainstream HSE services. Positions funded through academic institutions are classified as ‘research posts’, and are mainly linked to research grants rather than being core, substantive posts. While this means research nurses are well placed at the intersection of clinical and research activity, it has led to a lack of professional identity, and CRNs are not formally recognised as either clinical or academic staff. This in turn contributes to a lack of opportunities for professional development, or promotional posts. Vision and Mission of IRNN The Irish Research Nurses Network aims to support Research Nurses in their professional development, increase recognition and awareness of the role of the Research Nurse, and contribute to the quality and integrity of clinical research in Ireland. Strategic Objectives of IRNN • Develop and support continuing professional development for Research Nurses • Host an annual national IRNN conference • Act as an information resource on issues pertinent to the role of the CRN through the IRNN website, newsletters and educational and networking events. • Maintain a support and communications network for Research Nurses. • Advocate for recognition of research nursing as a specialist area of nursing practice