Dear EAN Members, colleagues, and friends,
I am Alicia González Martínez, a neurologist and research fellow at Hospital Universitario de la Princesa and Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Princesa (IIS-Princesa) in Madrid, Spain. I was born in Miguelturra (Ciudad Real), and I studied my Medical Degree in Ciudad Real, Castilla-La Mancha University, where I first discovered my passion for neurology. I later moved to Madrid for my residency and have since gained international clinical and research experience at institutions such as Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Harvard Medical School), Karolinska Institutet, and King’s College London. These experiences deepened my commitment to the physician-scientist pathway, showing me how fulfilling it is to combine patient care with research.
Being elected Chair of the Resident and Research Fellow Section (RRFS) is both a great honour and a responsibility I embrace with great enthusiasm. The RRFS plays a key role in shaping the future of neurology across Europe, and it is a true privilege to lead such a dynamic, motivated, and international community. Together, we work to drive meaningful progress for our more than 2,000 members, advocating for their needs, amplifying their voices, and fostering opportunities for growth and collaboration.
From this year onward, the decision to grant the RRFS representative full membership on the EAN board sends a powerful and encouraging message: the voices of early-career neurologists truly matter and deserve a place at the highest level of decision-making. This development not only strengthens our capacity to advocate effectively for residents and research fellows, but also enables us to contribute directly to the strategic direction of EAN initiatives. It represents a meaningful step toward intergenerational collaboration, ensuring that the future of neurology reflects the needs, priorities, and perspectives of young professionals across Europe. It is a true honour and privilege to work alongside the EAN board in advancing neurology priorities across Europe.
I am truly grateful to work alongside an inspiring group of officers who represent a wide range of countries, training systems, and subspecialty interests—all united by shared values and a common purpose: to create meaningful opportunities for our members and to foster a strong sense of community among neurology trainees across Europe. I would especially like to acknowledge the outstanding work of our previous Chair, Giacomo Sferruzza, and Past-Chair, Alice Accorroni, whose dedication and leadership have set an example for me in advancing RRFS initiatives through close interaction with the EAN Board and Committees. The RRFS Office is further enriched by our Liaison Officer, Nina Vaschenko; Secretary, Katarzyna Krzywicka; and our new Treasurer, Antonio Malvasio—each of whom brings exceptional imputs to this team.
Regarding the main priorities of the RRFS, the core one is excellent educational opportunities. We are committed to ensuring that the primary interests of RRFS members are well represented within the EAN, and that high-quality training and accessible resources are available to all—regardless of geographic location or institutional background. This includes expanding RRFS initiatives such as trainning schools (Spring and Autumn School, Science School), EAN grants, bursaries, and training opportunities (Leadership, Advocacy and Mentorship Training, CoCoCare programme). Our goal is to equip the next generation with the tools they need to push the boundaries of neurology even further.
Second, we want to promote collaborations across Europe, recognising the value of exposure to diverse environments and career paths—such as that of the physician-scientist. Understanding current trends and promoting mobility is essential to helping our members define their unique professional journeys.
On a more personal note, I am especially passionate about fostering creativity, well-being, and a strong sense of belonging within our community. One initiative particularly close to my heart is the NeuroART competition, which we launched during my time as RRFS Treasurer. It celebrates artistic expression and creativity within the field of neurology, and I am excited to see it continue growing—especially through collaboration with the EAN Board and the Neurologists Well-being Task Force.
Therefore, as the RRFS representative to the EAN Board, my main goal is to expand opportunities for early-career neurologists, promote excellence in clinical care and research, and foster collaboration across Europe—always with a focus on creativity, connection, and well-being.
This year, the RRFS has delivered several impactful initiatives, including surveys on migration trends and neurology education, activities from the Neurologists’ Wellbeing Task Force and the Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Neurology Task Force, and strong engagement in congress events such as TV sessions and the NeuroArt competition. Looking ahead, we aim to enhance RRFS representation in panels and improve communication with our members through our newsletter and more active social media presence to inform about events, deadlines, and educational opportunities.
Moreover, I believe the RRFS has a unique and vital role to play in advancing the goals of the EAN Brain Health Mission, which aims to promote and protect brain health across the lifespan. This mission goes beyond the treatment of neurological disorders—it encompasses prevention, early intervention, public awareness, and addressing modifiable risk factors that affect brain health from childhood through old age. Furthermore, the RRFS can play a proactive role in public engagement and health promotion—helping to raise awareness of brain health in schools, communities, and through digital platforms. Supporting interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging research in areas such as healthy brain ageing and prevention of cognitive decline, and fostering international partnerships—particularly with underserved regions—are areas where RRFS involvement can make a meaningful impact.
You are not alone—and your voice matters. Whether you’re just starting your residency, doing a fellowship or finishing your PhD, the RRFS is here to support you. Join our events, share your ideas, and help shape the future of European neurology. We need your energy, your creativity, and your vision. I invite you to get involved in the RRFS community—whether through our committees, congress activities, or online discussions. Together, we make it happen.
Best wishes
Alicia Gonzalez Martinez
EAN RRFS Chair
