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Driving Future Leaders in Pain Science: Advancing Research, Practice, Policy, and Education. Attend monthly virtual and yearly in-person sessions, receive expert mentoring, and develop leadership skills. Scholars will gain confidence and expertise to advance their careers, our mission, and the field of pain science through impactful capstone projects and training opportunities. Driving Future Leaders in Pain Science: Advancing Research, Practice, Policy, and Education. Deadline Extended to Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Eligibility Are within 5-15 years after completing your terminal degree. A current member of the USASP. Commitment Attend the pre-conference Leadership Academy workshop and our annual meeting. Participation in virtual mentorship and learning communities. Attend monthly meetings throughout the duration of the program with other Leaders. Required Application Materials A one-page cover letter explaining your motivation in seeking leadership training and a description of prospective opportunities following the Academy's completion. A one-page description of your proposed capstone leadership project (see below). A CV or NIH Biosketch (preferred). Letter of support from your supervisor. Letter of recommendation that attests to your leadership potential. Capstone Project Apply training from our Leadership Academy to pilot and refine your capstone project. Ideal projects should address an important health or healthcare issue related to pain, whether locally relevant or internationally applicable. The capstone should integrate leadership skills and tangibly advance your career. Capstone Proposal Example 1 Capstone Proposal Example 2 Some Project Examples Building a collaborative or mentoring team Supporting a career development award or grant submission Expanding access to pain care Refining hospital policies about pain management Organizing a USASP event or advocacy activity Core Competencies Strategic thinking, including long-term goals. Management of yourself and others, including emotional IQ and team dynamics. Effective communication, including negotiating, self-promotion, and managing conflict. Program Development, including financial management, leveraging networks and systems, and leading change. Annual Leadership Academy Timelines Applications open annually in August. Application deadline in October. Candidates are notified of acceptance into the program by late November. Kick-off happens at our annual meeting March 23-26 in Philadelphia, PA. Individual mentors are identified and quarterly meetings begin late summer Group mentoring, monthly webinars, and peer mentoring begin in September. Submission Process Please upload all required documents as a single PDF in the following order: Your one-page cover letter Your one-page description of your proposed capstone leadership project. A CV or NIH Biosketch (preferred). Letter of support from your supervisor. Letter of recommendation that attests to your leadership potential. Confirm that your file is correct and your PDF is 'viewable.' Please title your document 'FIRST AND LAST NAME_ LeadershipApplication.pdf' Application Review Criteria Ability to fulfill the time commitment, including participation in at least 75% of monthly meetings, online learning, and mentoring community meetings. The applicant’s leadership aspirations and how it was conveyed in their application. The applicant’s 'big picture' vision for, and compelling description of their proposed capstone project. A record of mentoring the next generation of pain scholars commensurate with experience level. Documented support from a supervisor for the time commitment required for participation. 2026 Application Key Dates Application deadline EXTENDED to Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Applicants will be notified about the status of their application by mid-December Leadership Academy Developing the next generation of leaders in pain science. Submit your application here Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Acute (to Chronic) Pain Chair: Mollie Meffert, Johns Hopkins University SOM Co-Chair: Paramita Basu, Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research Understanding of mechanisms, assessment, prevention, and management of acute pain, including the transition from acute to chronic pain. We achieve our goals by highlighting the importance of collaboration, promoting the study of acute pain, exchanging information, improving programs, and fostering education through events and workshops. News and Past Events Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each Month at 1400h ET. Explore preclinical models of post-surgical pain, mechanisms involved in the transition from menstrual to chronic pain in adolescents, molecular mechanisms of chronic pain, acute to chronic postsurgical pain in adolescents, the genomics and psychosocial factors of acute to chronic post-surgical pain in pediatric patients, the effects of THC in patients with neuropathic pain. Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Pain and Aging Chair: Kelly Naugle, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis Co-Chair: Larissa Strath, University of Florida Advancing pain management across the lifespan by fostering innovative research and education collaborations coupled with promoting equitable and evidence-based pain management for older adults from all backgrounds. Upcoming Webinar on December 8th 2025 from 12-1 pm EST. Members will recieve an email with the Zoom link. If you are not a member of this SIG and intesrted in attending, please reach out to eileenconroy@usasp.org. More information to come! News and Past Events You're all caught up! No new updates to display. Our Spring 2024 Newsletter Our Fall 2023 Newsletter Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Pain Epidemiology Co-Chair: Yurun Cai, University of Pittsburgh Co-Chair: Titilola Falasinnu, PhD, Stanford University School of Medicine Reducing pain burden through understanding the distribution and determinants of pain, promoting epidemiologic principles and methods in answering questions related to pain assessment, prevention and clinical care, collaboration with any individuals interested in population and clinical pain outcomes. News and Past Events Dr. Patel will share with us his career story as a pain epidemiologist doing clinical pain research. There will be ample time to ask questions. We look forward to your participation! Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Sleep and Pain Chair: Chasity Brimeyer, Medical College of Wisconsin at Children's Wisconsin Co-Chair: Alec Owens, University of Alabama at Birmingham Understanding of how sleep and circadian disturbances affect pain processing, regulation, and chronic pain development. Providing a forum for researchers and clinicians to connect, promote relevant meetings and events, support educational initiatives on sleep disturbance and pain, and host mentor-mentee activities to foster networking and professional development. News and Past Events You're all caught up! No new updates to display. Our June 2023 Newsletter Our September 2023 Newsletter Our November 2023 Newsletter Our May 2024 Newsletter Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Abdominal and Pelvic Pain Co-Chair: Kristen Weaver-Toedtman, University of South Carolina Co-Chair: Jami L Saloman, University of Pittsburgh Understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and management of abdominal and pelvic pain by promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, research, education, and advocacy. Key principles guiding this group are collaboration, supporting research initiatives, and advocating for improved access to compassionate and equitable care. News and Past Events Meetings are held on the third Friday of each month from at 1300h ET. Structured to provide a valuable experience for both our trainees and seasoned researchers. Each meeting will feature one trainee which will have the opportunity to present their ongoing research for 10-15 minutes, followed by an open discussion. Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Clinical Trials for Pain Research Chair: Giovanni Berardi, University of Iowa Co-Chair: Trevor Lentz, Duke University To promote scientific advances in pain clinical trials through high quality research design and development of professional competence to reduce the burden of pain. We communicate innovative pain research methodologies, standardize pain assessment with NIH HEAL, develop a diverse research community, identify training resources, foster collaboration in clinical trial design, support trainees and early career investigators, promote established datasets, and encourage multidisciplinary teams. Vision Communicate innovative methodologies/ designs/ interventions/ outcomes in pain research Work with NIH HEAL Common Data Elements group and national groups to standardize the assessment of pain across studies. Develop a community of diverse researchers from all backgrounds and all career stages with a common interest in clinical trials for pain research. Identify resources focused towards investigator training to conduct efficient, effective, and safe clinical trials Foster collaboration and innovation among researchers and clinicians involved in clinical trial design Opportunities for trainees and early career investigators Mentor/ mentee activities Promote the use of established pain clinical trial datasets Promote multidisciplinary investigation teams News and Past Events You're all caught up! No new updates to display. Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Our diverse array of specialized interest groups, each advancing the understanding and treatment within the many niche facets of pain research. Clinical and Translational Research Chair: Anitha Saravanan, Northern Illinois University Co-Chair: Neil Singla, Lotus Clinical Research Cultivating a collaborative approach for translational preclinical, clinical and population research specialties in pain. “Advance Pain Management from Bench to Bedside.” Promoting a translational research approach within USASP Develop educational initiatives (seminars/ workshops) to disseminate recent discoveries in clinical and translational research in acute and chronic pain. Create awareness of how clinical and translational studies in pain can improve outcomes of pain management, function, mobility, and quality of life across all populations. Bridge gap between preclinical research and clinical improvement in managing pain. Develop a community of diverse researchers and clinicians from all backgrounds with a common interest in clinical and translational research in pain to conduct interdisciplinary work. Share innovative findings and advances in study design, methods, and analyses in clinical and translational research in pain. Disseminate scientific information to enhance policy changes and to facilitate adoption of best practices in community settings. Foster communication for those that need it most. Create opportunities for trainees and early career investigators to collaborate by networking with experts. Encourage an open forum for all CTR SIG participants, including those belonging to diverse backgrounds to meet and interact. Conduct workshops, and other events to grow the CTR- SIG community. Enrich experiences of members by initiating various mentor-mentee activities (e.g., networking meetings, “Slido polls” “Kahoot” sessions) News and Past Events You're all caught up! No new updates to display. Login to SIG Portal Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Join the growing network of pain professionals, researchers, and clinicians, all driven to improve and expand access to pain care. PAYMENTS AND SUPPORT Payments through Payroc allow for use of Visa, AMEX, MasterCard, and Discover cards. If you have any questions please contact us. USASP is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, tax ID 84-4008678. All donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Students and Trainees $50 Students, Trainees, and Fellows Membership $50 Annual income of < $40K Membership $180 Annual income between $40K and $100K Membership $230 Annual income over $100K Creating a community where all who are interested, can afford to enjoy the benefits of membership. VIEW OUR FULL MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS Networking Members Directory Access to The Journal of Pain Advocacy Grants Leadership Opportunities Access to 18 Special Interest Groups (SIGs) Travel Awards Resources for all career stages Discounted Registration Fees to Attend the Annual Scientific Meeting Access to Conference Recordings Monthly Newsletter Monthly Webinars Resources for all Career Stages Grants Opportunities JOIN USASP's GROWING MEMBERSHIP Connect with peers, access cutting-edge research, and secure funding opportunities. Membership opens doors to a wealth of resources and networking opportunities to advance your profession and make a meaningful impact in pain. Shaping the national agenda on pain management. Elevate your Professional Journey by Becoming a Member Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar

Representing scientists nationwide who collaboratively research, diagnose, and treat pain in the United States. Webinars & Trainings Throughout November - want to make a difference by helping more people understand and trust pain research? Then we'd love for you to submit a brief video about your work for KNOWvember! What is KNOWvember? The U.S. Pain Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering, educating, and advocating for people with lived experience of pain. Every November, they run an educational campaign called KNOWvember that centers on a different theme each year. This year’s theme is pain research, and the need for greater public awareness is clear. In a recent U.S. Pain Foundation survey, 70% of respondents reported not knowing that pain research is actively happening. We are excited to share that USASP is partnering with the U.S. Pain Foundation to help change that. How can I contribute? As part of this partnership, USASP is inviting members to share a brief, plain-language video describing their research to help the public better understand the important work being done in the pain field. Participation is completely voluntary, and we would be deeply grateful for your involvement. All USASP members - across research areas, disciplines, and training levels - are encouraged to participate. You can contribute in one of two easy ways: 🎥 Submit a short 1-2 minute self-recorded video (upload via Google Drive in portrait mode, .mp4 or .mov format) 💬 Schedule a brief Zoom recording session with USASP staff to record your video (schedule a 10-minute meeting through Calendly ) Parameters The video should be 1-2 minutes long and answer the following questions: What is your name & where do you work? Briefly describe your current research project (to a lay audience). How do you hope your research will help people living with pain? Because these videos will be shared with a non-technical audience, we highly encourage plain language communication in your video, such as avoiding jargon, focusing on the big picture, and using accessible terms (e.g., use vs. utilized, new treatments vs. novel therapeutics). For more tips on plain language communication, please see the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s Communication Toolkit . Your video will be posted on the U.S. Pain Foundation’s website and social media accounts throughout November. Your voice can make a real difference in showing the public that pain research is active, vibrant, and full of promise. If you have any questions, you can contact Janelle at janelleletzen@usasp.org . Thank you for helping advance this important effort! What can YOU do to make a difference right now? Crafting Your Message Feel free to use the materials provided at the bottom of this page to craft your message (i.e. email, phone call). Below are a few suggestions for current topics to address in your message to local and state representatives. Pro Tip: Make it personal Feel free to use the materials provided at the bottom of this page to craft your message (i.e. email, phone call). Below are a few suggestions for current topics to address in your message to local and state representatives. ProTip: Make it personal Crafting Your Message Cuts to NIH Cuts to NIH will devastate the health science community and infrastructure, particularly support for pain research which is a disabling factor in almost every disease/illness/disorder and therefore crosses every institute NIH infrastructure Due to its complexity and need for input and expertise from multiple institutes, the NIH infrastructure is critical to continuing to build historically under-funded pain research and advance our knowledge and treatments to address the disabling and costly problem of chronic pain HEAL Initiative The HEAL Initiative, started in 2018, has expanded funding, improved our knowledge, and addressed the urgent need for non-opioid and non-pharmacological treatments for pain in just 8 years. Maintain this line item in the FY 2026 NIH budget at the FY2025 level ($640M) Cuts to indirect costs The proposed cuts to indirect costs will devastate research institutions, local economies, and employment throughout the US Trainees NIH, NSF, and VA funds for training to encourage the best of the next generation to pursue science and health careers in the US rather than alternative careers (finance or business) or leaving the US Possible topics to address in your message Find Your Representatives Click here to find your member Enter your ZIP code to find your federal and state representatives. Make sure you check to ensure your home address is in the district, click the “contact” link, and send each person an email. Helpful Materials NIH Cuts by county June 2025 View PDF USASP One-Pager July 2025 View PDF Key NIH Pain Research Data View PDF USASP Letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee June 2025 View PDF Op-Eds by Members What Medicaid Cuts Mean for Chronic Pain— Untreated childhood pain follows to adulthood by Monica L. Gremillion, PhD, Jacqueline N. Warner, PhD, and Jocelyn Gomez, PsyD (May 29, 2025) Read More What's Lost if We 'Play the Game' to Get Research Funding? — Our journey to understand and treat childhood pain in a new reality by Sarah Nelson, PhD, and Natoshia R. Cunningham, PhD (May 17, 2025) Read More Trump is cutting research that helps Americans deal with severe pain | Opinion By Juan M. Hincapie-Castillo (April 10, 2025) Read More Nicholas W Gilpin (2025) Science Under Threat in the United States: The NIH is a sound investment for the US taxpayer eLife 14 :e106710. Read More

Representing scientists nationwide who collaboratively research, diagnose, and treat pain in the United States. Annual Conference Plenary Speakers Submit Symposia and Abstracts Awards and Grants Education Calendar of Events Leadership Academy 'OUCH' Pain Podcast Newsletter Archive Previous Events About USASP About Us Our History See All Awards Here Committees and Taskforces Special Interest Groups Membership Member Login Become a Member Donate to USASP JOIN We are looking forward to connecting with you! Subscribe and Stay in the Know. Tue, Nov 11 Stanford Postdoctoral Fellowship in Pain Psychology / Location is TBD Learn More Location is TBD Sat, Nov 15 Society for Neuroscience / San Diego Convention Center Learn More San Diego Convention Center , 111 Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA Each year, scientists from around the world congregate to discover new ideas, share their research, and experience the best the field has to offer. Attend so you can: present research, network with scientists, attend session and events, and browse the exhibit hall. Wed, Dec 03 2026 USASP Leadership Academy EXTENDED DEADLINE / Online Submission Learn more Online Submission Application Deadline EXTENDED to Monday, December 1, 2025 Fri, Dec 05 2026 USASP Meeting Poster Abstract Deadline / Online submission Learn more Online submission Load More Upcoming Event Calendar SCROLL THROUGH OUR HISTORY Filter Beginnings Forming the Organization The Journal of Pain History BECOME A MEMBER What began as a small gathering of passionate researchers has grown into a premier event, bringing together experts from around the world. Over the years, we’ve fostered collaboration, sparked innovative ideas, and helped shape the future of pain science. As we continue to evolve, our commitment to excellence and meaningful progress in pain research remains at the heart of our mission. Present Building a New Association But with an established journal to our name, the USASP will be starting out with at least one solid block in the foundation upon which we will be building a new association. Thus, with a little luck and a lot of hard work, the new Board of Directors will establish an association that meets the needs of its membership, facilitating their struggle to achieve better and more effective pain management for all who need it. ‎ ‎ June 2020 The Road Ahead This initial Board of Directors of the USASP will have a lot to accomplish in its first year, including a membership drive, the first annual meeting, and the application to be the US chapter of the IASP, all done in the face of an ongoing pandemic, opioid crisis, and long overdue cultural revolution. Our First Board May 2020 Leadership of the USASP The initial board is composed of volunteers from the Organizing Committee who agreed to sit for terms ranging between ~one and ~three years and were elected by the Organizing Committee. Our First Board May 2020 Defining Values and Structure Needs Assessment survey data were used to guide remaining decisions about the structure of the board, election process, and board composition. This last issue generated the most discussion, with the final decision being that board composition would be a dynamic process whereby board seats for each election would be defined by the “call for nominations” generated by a nominating committee, with the goal of generating a board reflecting the composition of the membership, including diversity, across the pain research committee. Finally, an implementation plan enabled the USASP to transition to a member-based society with a turnover of 1/3 of the board every year. ‎ ‎ May 2020 Final Contract for the JoP A final contract was signed with Elsevier on May 18 2020, and the Journal resumed accepting new manuscript submissions the next day. ‎ ‎ March 2020 Standing on our Own One of the few issues not covered in the Needs Assessment was whether the USASP could or should be established as a “sister” organization to another established society. Given the number of potential partners, the near unanimous Organizing Committee vote on this issue was that while the USASP should facilitate interactions across and between societies, it should be a stand-alone organization. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite March 2020 Forming Sub Committees Thus, subcommittees were established to address the nuts and bolts of turning the three member 501(c)(3) that was the USASP into a member-based society. This included laying the groundwork for a presence in the ether (website, twitter handle), plans for an annual meeting (to be virtual in the Fall of 2020), and most importantly, the structure of the organization in terms of bylaws and articles of incorporation. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite March 2020 Forming the USASP With the JoP related issues relatively clearly defined, the Organizing Committee turned its focus to addressing the clear mandate from the Needs Assessment to develop a US-based pain society that is multidisciplinary and brings together scientists, clinicians, health-care providers, and policymakers to support the study of pain in order to directly improve the lives of people in pain. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite February 2020 The Consensus on Structure There was a broader range of opinions with respect to the answer to the second question with no clear consensus on the structure of the organization (Federation vs more traditional structure), how leadership and representation would be determined (by special interest group, discipline, etc), and whether the organization was run day to day by volunteers or a company. Nevertheless, the vast majority of respondents indicated that what they wanted most out of a society was a professional meeting, multidisciplinary membership, a journal, networking opportunities, and national advocacy. ‎ ‎ February 2020 Results from our Needs Assessment Survey A total of 933 responses were received from many individuals interested in the US pain community and a longer report on the results of this assessment can be found below. The answer to the first question was clear: 71% (n=617) of professionals and trainees residing in the US who responded to the survey (n=869) indicated that the available professional societies were not meeting their needs for their work in pain. Committee member contact lists, listservs, social media users, as well as avenues including the US members of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). January 2020 The Legal Process Legal fees associated with the wording of the purchase agreement, as well as support for the JoP editorial office that continued to process manuscripts in the publication pipeline through what proved to be a long process of finalizing an editorial agreement needed to resume publication of the journal. Dr. Gebhart represented the USASP in court three times over the coming months. January 2020 Our Fundraising Efforts Altogether, this campaign generated more than $170,000 (list of donors to be added when JoP editorial published), which not only covered the winning bid and purchase of the Journal on January 14, and the expedited processing of the USASP registration process, but what turned out to be a rapidly growing list of additional expenses. ‎ ‎ December 2019 Second Roadblock The second issue was going to require a lot of quick decisions that were addressed by the Organizing Committee. They lead in formation of the United States Association for the Study of Pain (USASP), a registered 501(c)(3) corporation, for the purpose of purchasing the JoP. Lead by Dr. Jessica Merlin, Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite December 2019 First Roadblock Employed to address the first issue, which included establishing a GoFundMe campaign (that raised almost $30,000) and a lot of direct contacts. Dr. Gerald Gebhart, the first Editor in Chief of the JoP December 2019 Intensifying the Scope The compressed time-line precipitated a scramble to not only raise the money needed for the purchase of the Journal, but to create a non-profit organization that would enable potential donors to make the needed contributions. ‎ ‎ December 2019 A Window of Opportunity Despite all the work that would still need to be done to form a society, let alone the awkward fact of putting the cart (a society journal) before the horse (the formation of a society), the possibility of purchasing JoP was just too good to pass up. ‎ ‎ December 2019 The Journal of Pain On just about the same day the Needs Assessment survey was heading out the door, the details of the auction of the Journal of Pain (JoP) were announced. An opening bid (of no less than $10,000) was due December 9, with the auction date set for December 12. ‎ ‎ November 2019 Finding the Answers To answer these questions the committee generated a Needs Assessment survey that was released in November, and concluded in February. First Annual Meeting Committee October 2019 Beginning the Work Formally addressing the two questions originally posed: Is there a need for a new US pain research organization, given the existence of multiple pain societies, and if so, what would it look like? Comprised of 41 individuals across the country. October 2019 Our First Committee The result was the creation of a group of 41 individuals from across the country, with varied career trajectories, specialty, and interests, all committed the promotion of interdisciplinary pain research. ‎ ‎ September 2019 Selecting our Representatives Some groups, such as basic pain scientists, held an election. Others, such as the Eastern Pain Society had already voted for their representative who were invited to join. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite September 2019 Finding Diverse Professionals The goal was to make representation on this committee as broad as possible, and the strategy was to reach out to any and all groups, specialties, disciplines with a link to pain research. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite September 2019 Forming the First Committee Taking this consensus as mandate, we began putting together an Organizing Committee for a US-based pain society. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite August 2019 A Virtual Consensus The discussion focused on whether existing pain associations met the needs of the larger pain research community and therefore whether a new organization was needed. While a number of attendees felt it was important to work with the existing pain associations, the clear consensus was that there was a need for a new organization. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite along with Drs. Julie Christianson and Doug Wright August 2019 Collaborating Together Not only did they agree to devote time, but enabled pain researchers from around the country who were not able to attend the Midwest regional Pain Interest Group in person, to participate in the discussion virtually (who knew this would become our norm in a little over eight months!). Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite along with Drs. Julie Christianson and Doug Wright August 2019 Broadening Discussions Approached the organizers of the Midwest regional Pain Interest Group to see if time could be devoted to a discussion of the future of a US based pain research association. Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite along with Drs. Julie Christianson and Doug Wright July 2019 A Need for New Drs. Michael Gold and Jennifer Haythornthwaite had been reaching out to pain researchers around the country to get their thoughts on whether a new pain society was needed and if so, what it might look like. ‎ ‎

Representing scientists nationwide who collaboratively research, diagnose, and treat pain in the United States.