VIEW IN FRENCH | VIEW IN PORTUGUESE
The International Professional Recognition Council (IPRC) invites research managers and administrators (RMAs) to apply for professional recognition.
! NEW SUBMISSION DEADLINES !
The IPRC is increasing the number of opportunities for submitting applications. All applications submitted and fees paid by the deadline will be included in that review cycle.
Submission deadlines
- 31 May 2026
- 31 August 2026
- 30 November 2026
- 28 February 2027
Please note: For 2026 only, applications submitted by 31 March 2026 will also be considered.
WHAT IS PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION?
Professional recognition is a formal award of professional status, granted following a peer review of a portfolio of evidence by the IPRC Technical Review Committee. The portfolio documents the applicant’s:
- Prior learning
- Competencies and career experience
- Professional contributions and achievements
PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS
Eligible applicants may apply for one of the following designations.
Applicants must be current members of any professional research management association.
BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION
- Enhances professional credibility and career enhancement
- Confirms core and transferable RMA competencies
- Strengthens your standing in the local and global RMA landscape
- Motivates for continued professional development
- Connects you to a growing peer network
HOW TO APPLY
- Review the Requirements and create an online account
Visit https://iprcouncil.com/ to review the portfolio of evidence requirements. Select “Complete the online application” to create an account and access further guidance materials. - Complete the Online Application
Work on your application and once ready, submit and select a payment method (credit card payment or invoice). It is strongly advised that applicants start early and plan for dedicated time during the process to focus on the application. - Screening and Peer Review
After the fees are paid applications are screened for completeness. Applicants may be requested to update their applications. Eligible applications will proceed to peer review by members of the IPRC Technical Review Committee. Each application is reviewed by three reviewers, and the reviewer reports are generally returned within three weeks after receiving the application. - Outcome Notification
Successful applicants are awarded their professional designation and may add it to their credentials. - Validity and Upgrading
Once awarded, the professional designation is valid for five years, after which the status can be renewed or upgraded when eligible.
RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
Institutional Support Packages
- Benefit from discounted fees and dedicated support throughout the application process through the IPRC’s institutional support packages.
- Read more to take advantage of this offering.
STARS
- View the list of recognised professionals to identify someone at your institution or in your region who can offer support and guidance. Please contact the IPRC Secretariat to link you to a STAR.
IPRC Website
- Visit the website for access to recorded guidance webinars and FAQs.
CONTACT
IPRC Secretariat: Dr Karin Dyason at karin@sarima.co.za
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The IPRC gratefully acknowledges support from the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), hosted at the World Health Organization (WHO) and co‑sponsored by UNICEF, UNDP, the World Bank, and WHO.

