Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Evidence Synthesis: Insights from the CORE Information Retrieval Forum

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Information retrieval is essential for evidence synthesis in health and care research, but developing search strategies is labour-intensive and time-consuming. Automating these processes is highly desirable, though it’s unclear if Information Specialists (IS) are willing to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) methodologies or how they currently use them. In January 2025, the NIHR Innovation Observatory and NIHR Methodology Incubator co-sponsored the inaugural CORE Information Retrieval Forum, where attendees discussed AI’s role in information retrieval. Methods: The CORE Information Retrieval Forum hosted a Knowledge Café, titled ”Building Our Community and Expanding Our Horizons”. Participation was voluntary and attendees could choose one of six event themed discussion tables including AI. To support each discussion, a QR code linking to a virtual collaboration tool (Padlet; padlet.com) and a poster in the exhibition space were available throughout the day for attendees to contribute to. Results: The CORE Information Retrieval Forum was attended by 131 IS from nine different types of organisations and ten countries. Among the six discussion points available in the Knowledge Café, the AI table was the most popular, receiving the highest number of contributions (n=49). Following the Forum, contributions to the AI topic were categorized into four themes: Critical Perception (n=21), Current Uses (n=19), Training Wants/Needs (n=7), and Specific Tools (n=2). Conclusions: While there are critical perspectives on the integration of AI in the IS space, this is not due to a reluctance to adapt and adopt but from a need for structure, education, training, ethical guidance, and systems to support the responsible use and transparency of AI. There is significant interest in automating repetitive and time-consuming tasks, but a lack of tools currently used by attendees. More work needs to be done to identify currently available tools and their potential to complement the work conducted by IS.

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