Ivana’s story

I strongly recommend the Knowledge Exchange Programme. It provides an excellent, focused opportunity for established researchers and clinicians to learn specialised skills, observe best practices firsthand, build collaborative networks, and bring practical improvements back to their home institutions.

Yes — the Knowledge Exchange Programme is a relevant experience that should be included on a CV. When listing it, the exact topic should be specified and whether the visit had a research or clinical focus; in my case it was primarily research with clear clinical impact.

The Knowledge Exchange Programme has influenced my daily practice: over the past few months we have begun routine use of donor derived cell free DNA (dd cfDNA). My research focused stay at Charité Berlin clarified which patients benefit most and the most common indications. I am very grateful to Prof. Budde and Aylin Akifova, MD, for hosting me, for their support, and for making my stay meaningful and highly productive.

I gained a sustained collaboration with the Charité Berlin team and continue to work with them remotely on ongoing research projects and future publications. I acquired hands-on experience with dd cfDNA workflows, including sample handling, laboratory processing, and multidisciplinary case discussions demonstrating real time clinical use. These experiences have supported implementation of dd cfDNA into routine care at my home institution.