Lorenza’s story

The ERA Registry fellowship programme is an outstanding opportunity for those looking to expand their knowledge in epidemiology and epidemiological research. For clinicians, the opportunity of collaborating with epidemiologists and biostatisticians broadens one's perspective and provides essential tools for designing and conducting clinical research projects with appropriate methodologies. These tools also enhance the ability to critically read and interpret scientific literature, which is fundamental for continually updating and refining clinical practice and patient care.

Absolutely yes. In just three months of the fellowship, I acquired numerous technical and language skills, and I successfully produced an article accepted in a major nephrology journal. Additionally, I initiated another project that is now in the writing phase.

As a nephrologist and a PhD student, the fellowship experience has been invaluable to both my clinical practice and research. Clinically, I have grown by delving deeply into the topic of my research project (CKD-MBD), a topic I am passionate about and specializing in. This required me to study the most up-to-date literature, enhancing my understanding and proficiency in managing this condition. As a PhD student, willing to work in research, this experience expanded my knowledge of epidemiology and allowed me to learn advanced statistical techniques.

From a technical perspective, I have acquired advanced statistical and methodological skills, particularly in the area of G-methods, which are crucial in causal research for addressing challenges such as time-varying confounding, competing events, and informative censoring. This methodological expertise equips me to design and execute more rigorous studies in the future, ensuring high-quality analyses that yield reliable results. By incorporating robust epidemiological and methodological principles into study design, I aim to generate evidence that can inform evidence-based clinical practice and contribute to advancements in patient care.
Additionally, the ERA Registry features an incredible team. It is a stimulating, welcoming, and fun work environment, where I formed great friendships and grew as a person, experiencing diverse cultures and a contagious passion for science!