Implementation and evaluation of a primary care practice based research network in the Ireland East region

General practitioners (GPs) play a central role in healthcare delivery, yet research participation in general practice remains limited. Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) have been internationally recognised as effective vehicles for strengthening academic capacity in primary care by fostering collaboration between clinicians and researchers. However, little is known about the feasibility and acceptability of implementing such networks within the Irish context. This study describes the implementation and evaluation of the UCD/Ireland East GP Research Network and assesses its acceptability and feasibility among participating general practices. A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted using secondary analysis of project documentation and a self-administered online survey of member practices ( n = 11, 79% response rate). The questionnaire was informed by the RE-AIM and Social Network Analysis frameworks to assess engagement, collaboration, and perceived impact. All respondents reported satisfaction with participation in the Network. The majority, nine (81.8%) noted increased motivation to engage in research, seven (63.6%) reported greater awareness of research opportunities, and five (45.5%) reported improved collaboration with peers and academic partners. Enhancing integration between primary and secondary care was identified as the top research priority, followed by chronic disease management and mental health. The findings indicate that establishing a structured, university-affiliated PBRN within general practice in Ireland is both feasible and acceptable. Findings indicate the Network has enhanced research capacity, engagement, and collaboration, offering a scalable model for strengthening primary care research and health system integration.