Eligibility
Criteria for Nomination:
The nominee should
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Have a minimum of 25 years, following the completion of their terminal degree, in active engagement and demonstrated leadership in the field of pain research, clinical practice, or related disciplines.
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Showcase substantial contributions to the advancement of pain science, which may include, but are not limited to:
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Pioneering research in pain mechanisms, treatments, or therapies.
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Development or implementation of innovative approaches in pain management.
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Exceptional clinical care, advocacy, or educational efforts that have significantly influenced the field.
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Publication of influential research papers, books, or scholarly works related to pain.
Nomination Process:
To nominate an individual for the Lifetime Achievement Award, the nominator must submit the following in a letter:
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Nominee's name, affiliation, and contact information.
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A detailed statement outlining the nominee's contributions to the field, highlighting their significant achievements and impact, and why they should be considered for the award.
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The deadline for nominations for the Gold-Haythornthwaite Lifetime Achievement Award has been EXTENDED to November 5th, 2025 with the award ceremony being held during the 2026 USASP Annual Scientific Meeting..
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Applications must be submitted to Dr. Brittany Knight at admin@usasp.org with the header “USASP Lifetime Achievement Award Nomination.”
Key Dates and Deadlines
Nominations deadline EXTENDED to November 5th, 2025
Award Recipients
2025
Clifford J. Woolf, M.B., B.Ch., Ph.D
Clifford J. Woolf, M.B., B.Ch., Ph.D. is a renowned neurobiologist and professor of neurology and neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, and director of the F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center at Boston Children’s Hospital . Born in South Africa, he earned his M.B., B.Ch., and Ph.D. from the University of the Witwatersrand before moving to London in 1979 to join University College.
Dr. Woolf’s groundbreaking research unveiled central sensitization—a phenomenon whereby nerve injury heightens spinal cord neuron excitability via NMDA receptors, leading to pain amplification.
He also pioneered the spared nerve injury model of neuropathic pain and advanced understanding of neuro‑immune mediators in inflammatory pain. In 1997, he shifted to the U.S., becoming the first Richard J. Kitz Professor of Anesthesiology Research at HMS before taking his current leadership roles.
A mentor and visionary, he champions the use of human stem‑cell‑derived neurons for modeling pain and other neurological conditions. His accolades include the Gill Distinguished Scientist Award, Reeve‑Irvine Medal, Kerr Award, and honorary fellowships from leading societies, and he serves on key NIH advisory boards.
2024
Jane C. Ballantyne, MD, FRCA
John Loeser, MD
Throughout their illustrious career, Dr. Loeser and Dr. Ballantyne's commitment to advancing understanding and treatment of pain has been truly remarkable. Their unwavering dedication, leadership, and innovative approaches have paved the way for significant progress in the field. Their pioneering research, innovative methods in pain management, and exemplary clinical care have touched countless individuals' lives, leaving an enduring impact on the landscape of pain treatment.
Their extensive body of work reflects a steadfast pursuit of excellence and tireless efforts to enhance patient outcomes. They have served as an inspiration and mentor to numerous professionals within the community, solidifying their legacy as a preeminent leader in the field of pain research and clinical practice.
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