International Headache Academy 2025: Event Recap
The 2025 International Headache Academy (IHA) took place from February 20–22, 2025, at the UCLA Meyer and Renee Luskin Conference Center in Los Angeles, California. This educational event brought together 51 early-career neurologists and research scientists for an immersive experience in the evolving field of headache medicine. The conference fostered an atmosphere of collaboration, mentorship, and hands-on learning, reinforcing its mission to inspire a long-term commitment to headache medicine among emerging professionals.
Designed to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, IHA 2025 provided participants with invaluable insights into the diagnosis, treatment, and study of migraine, cluster headache, and related primary headache disorders. Attendees engaged in a comprehensive program featuring keynote lectures, panel discussions, clinical case studies, and networking opportunities, all led by renowned experts in the field. The event not only equipped participants with practical knowledge but also encouraged them to contribute to the future of headache medicine.
A Comprehensive Learning Experience
What sets the International Headache Academy apart is its emphasis on active participation. Unlike traditional conferences where seasoned professionals deliver the bulk of the presentations, IHA selects trainees to present their own work, sharpening their public speaking skills while receiving valuable feedback from experts. This hands-on approach enhances their ability to effectively communicate research findings and clinical cases, a critical skill for their future careers.
One of the most anticipated components of the program was the research presentation session, where two selected trainees presented their research for consideration for an IHA Research Grant. Congratulations to Scheila Kraus, PhD, who was awarded the grant for her presentation, and will have the opportunity to present her findings at the upcoming Annual Scientific Meeting in June.
Event Highlights
The conference featured several standout sessions that provided insight into various aspects of headache medicine. One such session was Publishing and Reviewing in Headache Medicine, led by Rashmi Halker-Singh, MD, FAHS, who serves as AHS Secretary and Deputy Editor of Headache. This session provided trainees with a deeper understanding of the publication process and best practices for reviewing and submitting research.
Funding Your Headache Research, presented by Scott W. Powers, PhD, FAHS, an AHS Board Member-at-Large and member of the Research Committee, offered practical strategies for securing research grants. Given the importance of funding in advancing the field, this session was particularly relevant for attendees looking to pursue academic and clinical research careers.
Another highlight was the Special Session: What is the Most Promising Emerging Target for Migraine Treatment?, featuring Andrew Charles, MD, FAHS, and Peter J. Goadsby, MD, PhD, FAHS, both Past Presidents of AHS and former IHA Co-Chairs. Their discussion provided a fascinating look into the future of migraine therapeutics and the latest research on innovative treatment targets. The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where attendees explored potential breakthroughs in the field.
The Career Mentorship Breakout Sessions were another impactful element of the program, offering attendees an opportunity to engage directly with expert faculty in small-group settings. These sessions covered key career pathways, including clinical research, education, basic science, and advocacy, helping participants navigate their professional development in headache medicine.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the knowledge gained, IHA 2025 has a lasting impact on its participants through continued mentorship and professional development opportunities. Delegates received a complimentary one-year Trainee membership to AHS (or an extension if they were already members), as well as access to an exclusive IHA listserv, ensuring ongoing connections with faculty and fellow attendees. These initiatives reinforce the commitment of the AHS to expand the network of future leaders in headache medicine.
As the field continues to evolve, the discussions and insights from IHA 2025 will contribute to shaping the future of headache research and clinical care. The American Headache Society extends its gratitude to AbbVie Inc., Eli Lilly, and Pfizer Inc. for their educational grant support, which helped make this program possible.
Looking ahead, applications for IHA 2026 will open in the summer of 2025, offering another group of aspiring specialists the opportunity to engage with leading experts and further their careers in headache medicine. With each passing year, the International Headache Academy continues to solidify its role as a vital stepping stone for the next generation of headache medicine professionals.