The research continuum


To enable research, health leaders need to have an understanding of the research continuum. This continuum ranges from basic science, through to pilot studies, through to large clinical trials, through to the translation of research findings into clinical practice.

Using the research continuum to solve clinical issues.

Nina Meloncelli, Jed Duff & Ashley Cameron (Metro North Hospital and Health Service)

The research continuum

The research continuum, often described as ‘bench to bedside’, includes a spectrum of activities from basic scientific research investigations through to the implementation of research findings into everyday clinical practice.

Health leaders can help bridge the gap between research and practice by supporting innovation, quality improvement, and service evaluation activities. By encouraging teams to identify problems and explore evidence-based solutions, leaders can improve health services and enhance delivery of care.


QH-TRIP

QH-TRIP is a Queensland Health initiative that helps Hospital and Health Services (HHSs) bridge the gap between research and practice by strengthening workforce knowledge and capability. QH-TRIP empowers healthcare workers to plan and deliver research translation projects that produce meaningful change in practice.


Handy guides

Access practical tools and strategies to help lead and support research-informed practice:

Comparing research, Quality Improvement, and TRIP
A quick overview of research, quality improvement and translation activities from a leader's perspective
The research continuum
Actions to support your team with different research activities

Last updated: 21 July 2026