President's Welcome
“On behalf of the Infection Prevention Society, it is my pleasure to welcome you to IP2026, our flagship annual conference and the UK’s leading event for professionals shaping the future of infection prevention and control. The conference is designed to inspire, inform and empower, ensuring every attendee leaves with new ideas, strengthened networks and renewed confidence to drive improvements in infection prevention and patient safety.
We thank you for your ongoing commitment to infection prevention and look forward to meeting you at IP2026."
Jude Robinson, President
Conference Overview
Join us for two inspiring days at Infection Prevention 2026, where leading experts, frontline practitioners, researchers and innovators come together to shape the future of infection prevention and control.
This year’s programme is packed with high-profile keynote lectures, including the Cottrell Lecture, Tina Bradley Lecture, and Ayliffe Lecture, alongside a forward-looking plenary exploring pandemic preparedness and lessons from COVID-19. Delegates will hear from nationally and internationally recognised speakers covering topics such as antimicrobial stewardship, CDI pathogenesis, decontamination science, water safety, AI and digital transformation in IPC, behavioural science, and safe healthcare environments.
Across six themed content streams, the conference offers a rich mix of:
- Parallel scientific sessions
- Oral abstract presentations
- Poster talks and moderated discussions
- “Top 10 papers” evidence reviews
- Industry symposia
- Dedicated exhibition time
- Networking event with drinks
From real-world IPC solutions and outbreak case studies to emerging technologies and compassionate care, the programme balances practical learning with strategic insight.
Whether you work in acute care, community settings, research, education, estates, or policy, Infection Prevention 2026 provides the knowledge, connections and inspiration to support your practice and influence change.
Plus, you can join us at the end of Day 1 for a drinks reception in the Exhibition Hall, we would love to see you there.
We look forward to welcoming you to Leeds this September.
Become a Member
Becoming a member of the Infection Prevention Society (IPS) allows you to access exclusive discounted conference rates, alongside a wide range of professional benefits. Membership provides access to networking opportunities, regional branches, special interest groups, educational resources, professional development support, and the chance to contribute to national IPC policy and practice.
If you attend events regularly, membership can quickly pay for itself through discounted registration fees alone — while also connecting you to a supportive community of IPC professionals.