Headache Assistant Editor Leadership Opportunity Program
Illuminating minds. Connecting futures.
HALO is a two-year editorial and leadership program designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in headache medicine. Participants receive structured training in the peer review and editorial process while actively contributing to the work of the Headache® journal. The program emphasizes leadership development through longitudinal projects that expand the impact and mission of both Headache and the American Headache Society.
About the Program
HALO begins with introductory didactic sessions outlining what to expect as an Assistant Editor and an overview of the peer review and editorial process. Participants are matched with mentors on the editorial board throughout the first year for monthly meetings to guide the peer review and editorial process as well as the development of the longitudinal project. Mentorship also includes discussion of leadership skills and career development.
How to Apply
Eligibility
Applications are open to adult or pediatric residents, fellows, or postdoctoral researchers with a focus in headache research who are members of the American Headache Society (AHS). Non-members may submit for Trainee membership alongside their HALO application.
Not yet a member?
Learn more about AHS membership and apply here.
What We’re Looking For
Applicants should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a strong ability to write and think critically. Leadership potential, a keen interest in headache research, and a passion for medical education and teaching are highly valued. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented backgrounds to apply.
Please note: Individuals pursuing industry or industry-adjacent roles during their term are not eligible due to potential conflicts of interest.
Expectations
Time commitment is 5-8 hours per month. Participants will be expected to attend monthly didactic lectures, manage manuscripts submitted for peer review, and to participate in a longitudinal project with their HALO cohort.
Required Application Materials
- Proof of AHS Trainee membership or AHS membership application
- Up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A brief personal statement (maximum 500 words) outlining your interest in participating in the HALO program, your qualifications, and how you will manage the expected time commitment
- At least one peer-reviewed publication
- A letter of recommendation
Application Timeline
Applications open: February 1, 2026
Applications close: April 1, 2026
Notifications to those selected: June 1, 2026
New cohort joins the editorial team: July 1, 2026 for a two year term ending June 30, 2028
To apply, email application materials to Headache_EditorialOffice@yahoo.com.
Program Directors
Program Committee
Amy Gelfand, MD, MAS, FAHS
Headache® Editor-in-Chief
University of California San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
Rashmi B. Halker Singh, MD, FAHS
Headache® Deputy Editor and Online and Social Media Editor
Mayo Clinic Arizona
Scottsdale, AZ
Sarah M. Bobker, MD
Headache® Associate Editor
New York University Grossman School of Medicine
New York, NY