The Emerging Leader Programme seeks individuals who embody exceptional leadership qualities and possess a deep understanding of global stroke issues. Our aim is to cultivate a new generation of influential stroke leaders who will spearhead transformative efforts in stroke prevention, treatment, and support, both globally and within their respective nations.
Each year, two individuals are chosen to embark on their journey as Emerging Leaders. These selected participants will receive comprehensive support from an ESO-affiliated sponsor and mentor.
In addition, financial funding is provided to the participants. This funding serves to facilitate their involvement in various activities, such as attending conferences, workshops, and other educational events related to stroke research and treatment.
Attendance at required ESO Affiliated Events: Participants will be expected to attend a specified number of ESO affiliated events. These events may include conferences, workshops, seminars, or courses that are relevant to stroke care and education. By actively participating in these events, participants will enhance their knowledge and skills in the field.
‘Returning’ Learning: Participants will be required to demonstrate their ability to apply their acquired knowledge and skills by supporting the development of training resources or organizing meetings within their own institution or country. This could involve contributing to the creation of educational materials, mentoring colleagues, or facilitating educational sessions. The goal is to share their expertise and help improve stroke care and education within their respective regions.
Completion of a Project: Participants will undertake a project as part of the programme, focusing on either a research project or a quality improvement project within their clinical practice. The project should align with the objectives of the programme and make a tangible impact on stroke care. It could involve conducting research studies, implementing innovative interventions, or leading quality improvement initiatives. The completion of this project will showcase the participant’s ability to contribute to the advancement of stroke care and practice.
By incorporating these three components, the programme aims to provide participants with a comprehensive learning experience that combines knowledge acquisition, practical application, and impactful project work.
A defined framework of ESO educational activities required to complete the ESO Emerging Leader Programme, utilizing existing opportunities: This involves creating a structured curriculum and guidelines for the ESO Emerging Leader Programme, which outlines the necessary educational activities and milestones for participants to successfully complete the program.
Financial support to undertake the fellowship as ESO recognizes the potential financial barriers that individuals may face. This support will cover expenses such as travel, accommodation, and program fees. By removing financial obstacles, the program can attract a diverse pool of talented individuals who might otherwise be unable to participate.
A framework to translate their training into broader delivery of high-quality stroke education. The programme aims to establish a framework that enables participants to leverage their training and expertise effectively and to contribute to the improvement of stroke management and education in their own countries. This may involve engaging in mentorship programs, utilizing knowledge-sharing platforms, or participating in collaborative initiatives. By actively disseminating their knowledge and skills within their respective regions, emerging leaders can make a significant impact on stroke education.
The programme aims to be a prestigious recognition awarded to outstanding applicants from across Europe. While open to all ESO members, it is expected that at least one candidate from an ESO EAST country will be selected annually, on condition that received applications are to a required standard on review by the Oversight Committee. Financial support will be provided to all participants to complete the program requirements.
Each year, up to three spots will be available, and the program will span a three-year period. Participants will be paired with an ESO-affiliated sponsor and mentor.
Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a Certificate presented by the ESO President during the Presidential session at the ESO conference. Participants will take on leadership roles within their peer group, establishing networks, creating new educational opportunities, and actively engaging with ESO itself by serving as members of ESO committees and organizing bodies.
Applicants are required to submit a CV, a personal statement explaining their motivation for applying, how they meet the objectives of the program, and their plans to apply their learnings in their home institution or country. Ideally but not mandatory, applicants should include a letter of support from an ESO-affiliated sponsor and mentor outlining the support they will provide. Additionally, a letter of recommendation from their home institution is required. Applicants should have a demonstrated interest and involvement in clinical leadership, academic work, and/or research.
ESO encourages qualified candidates to apply. We seek candidates of the highest integrity and professionalism who share our scientific and humanitarian principles. Selection of the position is made on a competitive basis and we are committed to promoting diversity.
Selection criteria:
The programme will select up to three candidates per year, with one of the places specifically reserved for participants from an ESO EAST country. This ensures representation and opportunities for individuals from ESO EAST countries to benefit from the programme and contribute to stroke care advancements in their respective regions.
The application period for the Emerging Leader Programme is now open until 31 August 2025.
Interested applicants are requested to submit the following documents:
Possible assisting documentation
Complete applications should be sent to esoinfo@eso-stroke.org
Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.
The deadline to receive applications is 31 August 2025.
Applications are now closed.
Maria Gabriel
Hannover Medical School, Department of Neurology, Hannover (Germany)
Bogdan Cășaru
Department of Neurology, Emergency University Hospital Bucharest (Romania)
Antonio Ciacciarelli
Stroke Unit, Emergency Department, Policlinico Umberto I Hospital, Rome (Italy)
Rytis Masiliunas,
Center of Neurology, Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Clinics (Lithuania)
Lina Palaiodimou
Second Department of Neurology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Greece)
Marieta Peycheva
University Hospital “Sveti Georgi”, Medical University Plovdiv (Bulgaria)
Silke Walter, Germany – Lead (EC Member at Large)
Anna Bersano, Italy (Chair of the Education Committee)
Dalius Jatuzis, Lithuania (ESO EAST representative)
Else Charlotte Sandset, Norway (Member of the Education Committee)
Ellis S. van Etten, Netherlands (Chair of the Young Stroke Physicians Committee)
Alastair Web, UK (past Chair Education Committee)
The Emerging Leader Programme does not provide accreditation in the form of a degree or CME points. The accreditation of the program will be determined by recognition from ESO and ESO EAST. This recognition will be based on the participants’ attendance record for required elements, a report demonstrating how they have applied their learnings in their home region, and the submission of a high-quality project report or publication.
The Oversight Committee will evaluate these submissions, and successful participants will be formally recognized through a presentation at the ESO Conference, the awarding of a Certificate, and the inclusion of their achievement on the ESO website.