Sambunjak, D; Puljak, L. 2010. Cochrane systematic review as a PhD thesis: an alternative with numerous advantages. BIOCHEMIA MEDICA 20 (3): 319-326

[Eugene Garfield]

Sambunjak, D; Puljak, L. 2010. Cochrane systematic review as a PhD thesis: an 
alternative with numerous advantages. BIOCHEMIA MEDICA 20 (3): 319-326

Author Full Name(s): Sambunjak, Dario; Puljak, Livia
Language: English
Document Type: Review

Author Keywords: The Cochrane Collaboration; PhD thesis; The Cochrane 
Library

Abstract: In this article we propose that the production of a systematic review 
within The Cochrane Collaboration should be considered a valid mode of 
achieving doctoral title in medicine and related professions, including 
biochemistry.
While engaging in a Cochrane systematic review, an author first registers a 
title, then writes a peer-reviewed protocol consisting of introduction and 
methods, and finally publishes a full systematic review in The Cochrane Library, 
a monthly publication, which in 2009 reached an impact factor of 5.65. 
Conducting a Cochrane systematic review can give PhD candidates not only an 
opportunity to acquire a high level of content and methodological expertise, but 
also the capacity to learn and solve problems by using critical and analytical 
thinking. This capacity is considered one of the key generic and transferable 
skills necessary for future researchers.
While working on a Cochrane systematic review, an author builds international 
research network. Cochrane Review Groups as editorial bases of The Cochrane 
Collaboration offer ongoing support and advice to the authors. Besides being 
clinically relevant and high-impact, Cochrane systematic reviews should be 
especially interesting to doctoral students from low- and middle-income 
countries because they are associated with relatively small financial burden.
In conclusion, systematic reviews have a number of advantages and therefore 
institutions offering postgraduate training should consider adopting a "Cochrane 
PhD", and students should consider doing a Cohrane systematic review for their 
doctoral thesis.

Addresses: [Puljak, Livia] Sch Med Split, Dept Anat Histol & Embryol, Split, 
Croatia; [Sambunjak, Dario] Sch Med Split, Dept Res Med & Healthcare, Split, 
Croatia
Reprint Address: Puljak, L, Sch Med Split, Dept Anat Histol & Embryol, Split, 
Croatia.

E-mail Address: livia at mefst.hr
ISSN: 1330-0962