Global leaders in evidence-based healthcare highlight the urgent need to advance global health equity

Cochrane has partnered with JBI, Campbell Collaboration, GIN, the Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, the Centre for Evidence-based Health Care and NICE to launch the 2023 campaign for World Evidence-Based Healthcare (EBHC) Day, called ‘Evidence and Global Health Equity’.  

World EBHC Day is held on 20 October each year. It is a global initiative that raises awareness of the need for better evidence to inform healthcare policy, practice and decision-making in order to improve health outcomes globally. It is an opportunity to participate in debate about global trends and challenges and celebrate the impact of individuals and organisations worldwide, recognising the work of dedicated researchers, policymakers and health professionals in improving health outcomes. 

The 2023 campaign aims to examine how the global evidence community can foster and embed equity within and across evidence ecosystems to advance global health equity and inspire a collective drive among individuals and organisations to challenge the status quo and embrace a new paradigm of evidence generation and utilisation that propels progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

“In 2023 we reached the mid-way point for the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and a global commitment to ‘leave no one behind’, says World Evidence-Based Healthcare Day Chair, Bianca Pilla. "However, the global crises of humanitarian disasters, climate change and health pandemics are all impeding progress and exacerbating global health inequities, highlighting the urgency to strengthen local and global evidence ecosystems to address societal challenges."

Evidence is a prerequisite for achieving global health equity. Equitable health policies, systems and services are all dependent on functioning evidence ecosystems: the generation and application of evidence, whether this is by the public, health workers, researchers or policymakers.

"Global health equity rests on the foundation of robust evidence ecosystems," says Catherine Spencer, Cochrane CEO. "As a trusted leader in synthesizing health evidence for over 30 years, Cochrane is fully dedicated to promoting equity. We are excited to collaborate with the other World Evidence-Based Healthcare Day partners to emphasize that the development of equitable health policies, systems, and services hinges upon the effective generation and application of evidence by the public, health workers, researchers, and policymakers. Together, we can drive meaningful change and foster a future of inclusive healthcare."

In 2023 the organising partners have invited Health Information for All (HIFA), E-Base Africa, International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie), The George Institute for Global Health and University of Global Health Equity as campaign partners. Campaign partners collaborate with the organising partners of World Evidence-Based Healthcare Day to contribute to developing and strengthening the campaign, ‘Evidence and Global Health Equity’, with unique expertise, knowledge and resources.

The 2023 campaign is a call to action to take concrete steps towards equity-centred evidence-informed decision making, drawing attention to the need to enhance collaboration, information sharing and networking to increase access to research evidence, and to move towards integrated systems that prioritise equity, inclusivity and multisectoral participation of all actors.  

Many in the Cochrane community have submitted blogs, vlogs, and events for World Evidence-Based Healthcare Day to help share experiences and collective wisdom on fostering equity-centred evidence-informed decision-making and strengthening evidence ecosystems - check them out!

•  Visit the World EBH Day website

Jheng-Yan Wu shares how Cochrane has impacted his professional development and his clinical practice. 

A dietitian from Taiwan, Jheng-Yan Wu, has made waves in the global medical community by proudly displaying a permanent Cochrane logo tattoo on his forearm. Wu's decision to immortalize the iconic symbol in a tattoo signifies his unwavering dedication to evidence-based healthcare and the application of systematic reviews and meta-analysis in his clinical practice.

Wu's journey with Cochrane began in 2018 when he was first introduced to evidence-based medicine. Captivated by Cochrane's emphasis on global collaboration and its mission to enhance healthcare, Wu worked with Cochrane Taiwan, volunteering his time to translate six plain language summaries from English to Traditional Chinese. These translations aim to improve accessibility and knowledge dissemination, ensuring that evidence-based resources reach a global audience.

The year 2022 marked a significant turning point for Wu, as he took on the challenge of learning about the methodology behind writing systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Immersing himself in the wealth of techniques outlined in the Cochrane Handbook of Systematic Reviews of Interventions and other resources on Cochrane Training, Wu deepened his understanding of evidence synthesis and further fueled his passion for incorporating rigorous research into their daily clinical practice.

It was during this period that Wu decided to permanently ink the Cochrane logo onto his arm, a testament to his commitment to evidence-based healthcare. The logo, displaying the forest plot of an iconic systematic review, serves as a constant reminder for Wu to apply the knowledge and insights gained from Cochrane's resources when making clinical decisions.

Reflecting on the significance of his tattoo, Wu expressed, "My Cochrane tattoo represents my passion for evidence-based healthcare. It serves as a constant reminder to strive for excellence in my clinical practice and to rely on high-quality evidence synthesis rather than individual studies when making clinical decisions. My ultimate aspiration is to work on a review published in the Cochrane Library and make a tangible impact on patient care."

Wu's tattoo is the second known instance of someone getting a Cochrane logo. The first is a parent who chose the Cochrane logo as an expression of gratitude and hope, as their premature baby's life was saved through an intervention supported by Cochrane evidence. These tattoos represent the tangible and lasting impact that Cochrane's work can have on clinicians, individuals, and families.

• Learn about how you can join Cochrane
• #MyCochraneStory - Read other stories about Cochrane Community members

Specifications: Permanent – Full Time
Salary: £30,000 per annum
Location: (Remote- Flexible) Ideally based in the UK, Germany or Denmark. Candidates from the rest of the world will be considered; however, Cochrane’s Central Executive Team is only able to offer consultancy contracts outside these countries (1-year fixed-term contracts)
Directorate: Evidence Production and Methods Directorate
Closing date: 02 July 2023

Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

“Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world.” Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into four directorates: Evidence Production and Methods, Publishing and Technology, Development, and Finance and Corporate Services.

As Assistant Quality Assurance Editor within Cochrane’s Editorial Department, you will provide support to the Quality Assurance Editor and Senior Quality Assurance Editor, to help them to assess whether protocols, reviews and updates submitted to Cochrane’s Central Editorial Service have met Cochrane’s methodological standards.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values: Collaboration: Underpins everting we do, locally and globally. Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format. Integrity: Independent and transparent. Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.

You can expect:

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally
• A flexible work environment
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

Cochrane has offices with payroll in the UK, Germany and Denmark. Candidates from other countries are employed on consultancy contracts.

How to apply

• For further information on the role and how to apply, please click here
• The deadline to receive your application is 2nd July, 2023.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples.
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

The official #CochraneLondon merchandise is available for purchase at the Cochrane Store. The items include tote bags, mugs, shirts, and more - allowing you to proudly display your support!

Cochrane UK is hosting the highly anticipated Cochrane Colloquium taking place in London, UK from 4-6 September 2023. With the theme “Forward together for trusted evidence”, the 2023 Cochrane Colloquium is set to be a groundbreaking event with a blend of knowledge sharing, networking opportunities, engaging plenary speakers, and captivating events. 

To mark the Colloquium, you can purchase merchandise to wear at #CochraneLondon and cherish as a meaningful souvenir afterwards. In an effort to prioritize sustainability, Cochrane has opted for a print-on-demand store, ensuring a more eco-friendly approach. Please note that these items will not be available for purchase at the Colloquium itself and must be acquired in advance.

"The Ann Anderson Walk is a cherished social event for the Cochrane Community, where Colloquium attendees explore the host city and donate to next year’s Anne Anderson Award. This year the self-guided walk takes people past some notable landmarks of London while teaching you about the surrounding health history and women's contributions to healthcare in London. I encourage everyone to set aside some time for the walk and make a donation. There is so much to see just steps from the conference centre and I am so excited to see this year's map added to the Anne Anderson designs already available in the store."
 
- Tiffany Duque, 2022 winner of the Anne Anderson Award

"It’s been a long time since our last Cochrane Colloquium. We’re bringing together Cochrane researchers, clinical professionals, early career professionals, patients and carers, policymakers, and anyone interested in evidence synthesis and evidence-based healthcare. We know that everyone in our community is excited for this year’s event. Take a look at our great #CochraneLondon items available to help celebrate. Alongside these are our Cochrane 30th Anniversary items, as we will be celebrating this milestone at the colloquium."

- Catherine Spencer, CEO of Cochrane

"The 2023 Cochrane Colloquium is just around the corner. This year’s Colloquium is a special one; with 5 long years since the last Colloquium, we can now come together again, and celebrate 30 years of Cochrane producing trusted evidence. We hope you find something in the Cochrane store as a memento of this historic event and we look forward to welcoming you to London!”

- Martin Burton, Director of Cochrane UK

Get some Cochrane London gear now and show your support for evidence-based healthcare!

• Visit the Cochrane Store

Cochrane recently participated in the 76th World Health Assembly (WHA), the world’s foremost global health policy event. Held at the UN Headquarters in Geneva, the WHA is the decision-making body for the World Health Organization (WHO), attended by representatives of all Member States, as well as NGOs and funding organisations. It is thus a key forum to advocate for evidence-informed health policies.

This year’s event marked the 75th anniversary of WHO’s founding and the agenda was packed with issues to address. Among these was an agreement for Member States to increase contributions to WHO’s budget, health emergency preparedness and response, as well as further discussion of the resolution to strengthen clinical trials passed last year.

WHA76 also marked the historic passing of the first ever resolution on strengthening rehabilitation in health systems. To commemorate the occasion, Cochrane Rehabilitation participated in a side event organised with NGOs and professional associations working in the field of rehabilitation, and sponsored by five Member States. Prof Stefano Negrini, Director of Cochrane Rehabilitation, represented Cochrane and spoke on the panel about the importance of using the best possible evidence for rehabilitation. He highlighted that around 9% of reviews on the Cochrane Library relate to rehabilitation, and the need for specific study designs.

Cochrane was represented at the WHA by Governing Board Co-Chair, Catherine Marshall; Editor in Chief, Dr Karla Soares-Weiser; CEO, Catherine Spencer; our Advocacy and Partnerships Lead, Emma Thompson. Given the historic focus on rehabilitation at the assembly, we were also joined by Prof Stefano Negrini and Dr Carlotte Kiekens from Cochrane Rehabilitation and Dr Cornelia Barth from Cochrane Switzerland.

In addition to following the assembly and attending side events, the team used the opportunity to meet with several of Cochrane’s partners from different WHO departments and other health-related organisations, as well as Dr Erik von Elm, Director of Cochrane Switzerland.

• Learn more about Cochrane's partnership with WHO
• Visit the Cochrane Rehabilitation website

Specifications: Permanent – Full Time Role
Salary:  £60,000 per Annum  
Location: (Remote – Flexible) Candidates anywhere from the world will be considered; however, Cochrane’s Central Executive Team is only able to offer consultancy contracts outside these countries.
Directorate: DEV
Closing date: 25 June 2023
 
Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world. Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into four directorates: Evidence Production and Methods, Publishing and Technology, Development, and Finance and Corporate Services.

To lead the Membership, Learning & Support department in providing strategically-focussed services, providing intelligent pathways for people to get involved through membership, communicating and engaging with them in innovative ways to strengthen and develop their relationship with Cochrane, shaping and offering high quality learning experiences, and supporting people with their enquiries.   

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values: Collaboration: Underpins everting we do, locally and globally. Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format. Integrity: Independent and transparent. Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.  

You can expect: 

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally  
• A flexible work environment  
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

How to apply

• For further information on the role and how to apply, please click here 
• The deadline to receive your application is 25 June 2023.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples. 
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Specifications: Permanent – Part Time (2 days a Week)
Salary:  £40,000 per annum  (pro rata)
Location: Remote – Flexible
Directorate: DEV
Closing date: 21 June 2023
 
Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world. Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into four directorates: Evidence Production and Methods, Publishing and Technology, Development, and Finance and Corporate Services.

As a new role within the Communications team, the Creative Content Producer will work with colleagues across the organisation to bring our work to life and ensure our branding and visual identity are applied consistently. We’re looking for a self-starter who will be able to take ideas from concept through to final design, working flexibly with colleagues across the organisation.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values: Collaboration: Underpins everting we do, locally and globally. Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format. Integrity: Independent and transparent. Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.  

You can expect: 

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally  
• A flexible work environment  
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

Cochrane has offices with payroll in the UK, Germany and Denmark. Candidates from other countries are employed on consultancy contracts. If you would like more details on how this works, please contact hrenquiries@cochrane.org

How to apply

• For further information on the role and how to apply, please click here
• The deadline to receive your application is 21 June 2023.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples. 
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Specifications: Permanent (3 days a week)
Salary:  £36,952 per annum  (pro rata)
Location: Remote – Flexible
Directorate: Development  
Closing date: 18 June 2023
 
Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high quality, trusted information.

Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world. Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into four directorates: Evidence Production and Methods, Publishing and Technology, Development, and Finance and Corporate Services.

Cochrane is looking for a part time (three days a week) Communications Officer to write engaging copy for a range of audiences. This is an exciting opportunity to work with one of the world’s most trusted sources of health and care evidence. You would be helping to share important high-quality evidence with a wide range of people, empowering them to make better health and care decisions.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values: Collaboration: Underpins everything we do, locally and globally. Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format. Integrity: Independent and transparent. Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.  

You can expect: 

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally  
• A flexible work environment  
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

Cochrane has offices with payroll in the UK, Germany and Denmark. Candidates from other countries are employed on consultancy contracts.

How to apply

• For further information on the role and how to apply, please click here
• The deadline to receive your application is 18th June, 2023
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples. 
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Title: Editorial Policy Lead
Specifications: Fixed term contract (six months with potential to extend to 12 months)
Salary:  £ 52, 000 per Annum
Location: Ideally based in the UK, Germany or Denmark. Candidates from the rest of the world will be considered; however, Cochrane’s Central Executive Team is only able to offer consultancy contracts outside these countries.
Directorate: Evidence Production and Methods
Closing date: June 18, 2023

Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high-quality, trusted information.

Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world. Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into four directorates: Evidence Production and Methods, Publishing and Technology, Development, and Finance and Corporate Services.

The Editorial Policy Lead will lead the development and implementation of editorial policies and related procedures for the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and associated products. They will work closely with the Methods Support and Review Development team and Central Editorial Service to ensure that all content published on the Cochrane Library meets high standards of quality, accuracy, and transparency. Overall, this role will contribute to streamlining editorial policy procedures with a focus on author experience, to support Cochrane’s efficiency and sustainability as an organisation.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be just the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values: Collaboration: Underpins everting we do, locally and globally. Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format. Integrity: Independent and transparent. Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.

You can expect:

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally
• A flexible work environment
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

How to apply"

• For further information on the role and how to apply, please click here
• The deadline to receive your application is 18h June, 2023
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples. 
•       Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Title: Legal Counsel
Specifications: Permanent Role (open to part-time minimum 4 days per week)
Salary: £55,256K per annum
Location: UK Remote (office in London is available if candidate wants to use it sometimes)
Directorate: Finance & Corporate Services
Closing date: 20 June 2023

Cochrane is an international charity. For 30 years we have responded to the challenge of making vast amounts of research evidence useful for informing decisions about health. We do this by synthesising research findings and our work has been recognised as the international gold standard for high-quality, trusted information.

Cochrane's strength is in its collaborative, global community. We have 110,000+ members and supporters around the world. Though we are spread out across the globe, our shared passion for health evidence unites us. Our Central Executive Team supports this work and is divided into four directorates: Evidence Production & Methods, Publishing & Technology, Development, and Finance & Corporate Services[CE1] .

The Legal Counsel will be required to provide legal advice across the organisation, to enable Cochrane to manage risk and meet its legal and regulatory obligations. The successful candidate will be a qualified solicitor with excellent communication skills, who can provide clear and pragmatic advice and manage their workload effectively whilst maintaining attention to detail.

Don’t have every single qualification? We know that some people are less likely to apply for a job unless they are a perfect match. At Cochrane, we’re not looking for “perfect matches.” We’re looking to welcome people to our diverse, inclusive, and passionate workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but don’t have every single qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. Whether it’s this role or another one, you may be the right candidate.

Our organization is built on four core values: Collaboration: Underpins everything we do, locally and globally. Relevant: The right evidence at the right time in the right format. Integrity: Independent and transparent. Quality: Reviewing and improving what we do, maintaining rigour and trust.

You can expect:

• An opportunity to truly impact health globally
•  A flexible work environment
• A comprehensive onboarding experiences
• An environment where people feel welcome, heard, and included, regardless of their differences

Cochrane welcomes applications from a wide range of perspectives, experiences, locations and backgrounds; diversity, equity and inclusion are key to our values.

How to apply:

• For further information on the role and how to apply, please click here
• The deadline to receive your application is 20 June 2023.
• The supporting statement should indicate why you are applying for the post, and how far you meet the requirements, using specific examples. 
• Read our Recruitment Privacy Statement

Early bird registration has been extended for the 2023 Cochrane Colloquium. Register by Wednesday 7 June 2023 to get the reduced early bird rate

You can register for the Cochrane Colloquium, which will take place at the Queen Elizabeth II (QEII) Centre in London from 4th to 6th September 2023, with Satellite events on 3rd September.

The Colloquium is an annual event for everyone with an interest in the use of evidence in healthcare decision making including those engaged in evidence production, co-production, dissemination, implementation, and policy making, as well as those making individual healthcare decisions.

This year’s theme is ‘Forward together for trusted evidence’. It will explore the challenges for the future around the trustworthiness of healthcare data and information whilst also celebrating 30 years of producing trusted evidence. 

You can explore the programme here and the list of plenary speakers here – with more to be added.

Students, healthcare consumers, and people from low-income, lower-middle-income, and upper-middle-income economies (LMIC) are eligible for a reduced rate.

 On Sunday 3rd September, there are three satellite events taking place at the Colloquium venue that you may also like to register for:

• 2023 Cochrane Methods Symposium
• GRADE-CERQual event
• Putting evidence into practice: an event for students and healthcare professionals

 Find out more about these satellite events, including how to register, here.

• Register here
• Registration fees – reduced early bird rate now ends on 07 June 2023
• Registration terms and conditions

• Colloquium website 
• #CochraneLondon
• Press contact: Katie Abbotts, Cochrane UK
• Sign up for newsletter updates