Cochrane's members and supporters come from more than 130 countries, worldwide. Our volunteers and contributors are researchers, health professionals, patients, carers, people passionate about improving health outcomes for everyone, everywhere.
Getting involved in Cochrane’s work means becoming part of a global community. The Cochrane International Mobility programme connects successful applicants with a placement in a host Cochrane Group, where they learn about the production, use, and knowledge translation of Cochrane reviews. The prgramme offers opportunities for learning and training not only for participants but also for host staff.
In this series, we profile those who have participated in the Cochrane International Mobility Program and learn more about their experiences.
Name: Silvana Urru
Location: Italy
CIM Location: Cochrane Sweden
How did you first learn about Cochrane?
As a researcher, I have always sought evidence to support hypotheses, and discovering that there was an international non-profit organization dedicated to gathering, critically evaluating, and disseminating information on the efficacy and safety of healthcare interventions was incredibly exciting for me. I decided to deepen my understanding and contribute, in my own small way, to this organization. Initially, I participated as a volunteer in on the citizen science platform, Cochrane Crowd, with Anna Noel Storr. Later, I joined the Board of Directors of the Alessandro Liberati Association – Cochrane Italy Affiliate Centre. There, I had the good fortune to meet the President, Maria Grazia Celani, neurologist, that works at the Neurophysiopathology Unit of the Perugia Hospital and is the head of the clinic for demyelinating diseases. She is involved in epidemiological research and randomized controlled trials. She is a methodologist within the Cochrane Neurological Sciences Field and is the author of several Cochrane systematic reviews on interventions and diagnostics. Her enthusiasm for evidence-based research is particularly focused on conveying to clinicians the importance of continuous learning and sharing the best available evidence with colleagues in order to address relevant questions for patients. Maria Grazia connected me with Matteo Bruschettini from Cochrane Sweden.
What was your Cochrane International Mobility experience like?
In 2023, Matteo invited me to participate in a Cochrane review. Matteo was incredibly kind, supportive, and highly professional in both neonatal care and evidence synthesis. Our small team of five met regularly over Zoom, where Matteo patiently guided us through each step, explaining everything in detail—from the evolution of Cochrane methodologies to practical tips on using the RevMan software.
What are you doing now in relation to your virtual Cochrane International Mobility experience?
Our Cochrane review on strategies for the cessation of caffeine administration in preterm infants has been recently published. Thanks to Matteo, who is extremely professional and exceptionally skilled, I have learned a lot and continue to do so. We have more studies planned, and with his guidance, I am confident that we will complete them soon.
It is crucial to bring as much scientific evidence as possible into the healthcare field, as it is fundamental for patient safety and for shaping health policy strategies.
Do you have any words of advice to anyone considering a Cochrane International Mobility experience?Yes! Do not hesitate to contact the Cochrane center wherever you are based, or to search for posts in volunteer platform, Cochrane Engage. Doing a systematic review is great way to master research methodology and to provide reliable evidence synthesis.
