Abstract: Argues that nurses undertaking doctoral research have a responsibility to ensure their research engages with international nursing research and is relevant post-doctorally. Distinguishes between the purpose of PhDs and Professional Doctorates. Finds that nursing doctoral graduates are impeded from assuming leading roles in funded research. Attempts to find ways to address this challenge, suggesting that remote attendance at conferences and Internet communication with nurse researchers overseas encourages an international perspective on nursing topics. Backgrounds the establishment of an international nursing research community between Oxford Brookes University in the UK and Victoria University of Wellington in NZ.