AI Methods within Systematic Review Search Strategies

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John Barbrook, Faculty Librarian, Lancaster University

Abstract

While AI usage can be transformational for reviews, retaining a ‘human in the loop’ is a vital check on the more problematic usage of AI, such as non-reproducible methodologies and bias. John will introduce steps used in guided tutorials to help students and researchers produce higher-quality systematic reviews, especially for novice reviewers or small groups.

Using AI to improve search strategies, deduplicate, sensitivity test, reduce bias, and support researchers producing multi-disciplinary or scoping reviews means a move towards “librarians in the loop”  will gradually become a key element of the AI-supported review.

Biography

Image of John Barbrook

John Barbrook is a Faculty Librarian for Health, Medicine, Science and Technology at Lancaster University. His primary focus is on content development, but hold an interest in decolonising and grey literature, working to build more representative, diverse, and equitable library collections and research methodologies. He also provides research support in evidence-based practice and systematic reviews.

In his spare time, John is a director of a local community Makerspace, unblocking 3D printers and cleaning laser cutters.

https://bsky.app/profile/stackingbooks.bsky.social

http://uk.linkedin.com/in/johnbarbrook

Spring Forum 2026: Search Lightning! This review is automatic, systematic, hydromatic!

The 2026 UHMLG Spring Forum will once again bring together a fantasic line-up of speakers from around the UK, across two half-days in April (22nd & 23rd). There are a total of six talks on the overall theme of systematic reviews – some of which do, of course, discuss the use of AI in systematic reviews… but the focus is very much on the practical implementation, not on generalities or background.

Our core audience is UK / Republic of Ireland health and medical librarians from the Higher Education and NHS / health sectors, but we welcome delegates from any area of librarianship, and from anywhere in the world.

More information / Book your place

For full information about the forum and to book a ticket place, please visit our Spring Forum 2026 page. This year we are offering an institutional ticket, which allows unlimited access for all colleagues.