In this article, Leanne Hume, Royal College of Nursing (RCN) independent health and social care lead nurse (Northern), general practice nurse (GPN) and Queen’s Nurse (QN), and Michelle Raddings, RCN independent health and social care lead nurse (Yorkshire and Humber), explore why research in primary care matters. They reflect on the unique role of GPNs in identifying real-world questions, shaping evidence-based practice, and leading innovation from within community settings.