In September 2024, the EFIC Council elected Esther Pogatzki-Zahn as the next EFIC President (2026-2029) and Caterina Aurilio as the next Honorary Secretary (2024-2027).
Prof. Esther Pogatzki-Zahn is an experienced anesthetist, pain specialist, and researcher with a long-standing involvement in EFIC and the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). She has played a key role in various EFIC working groups and committees, including the development of clinical practice recommendations on opioids, serving as Chair of the EFIC Scientific Committee for #EFIC2023, and leading the EFIC Research Committee. Additionally, she has been a Councillor for IASP, chairing several international task forces. Her expertise spans guideline development, education, and research, making her a prominent figure in advancing pain science and management.
Please find a brief statement from her below:
Dear colleagues,
I would like to express my gratitude for the trust you have placed in me as the next President of the European Pain Federation EFIC. Having worked closely with EFIC for many years in various capacities, including as Chair of the Scientific Committee and member of the Research and Advocacy Committees, I am deeply committed to furthering our mission to improve pain management and advance pain science across Europe. As a clinician, anesthetist, and researcher, I am passionate about the potential of EFIC to be a transformative force in shaping the future of pain care, research, and education.
I believe that the strength of EFIC comes from our ability to unite clinicians, researchers, and patients in pursuit of a common goal—improving pain care. As EFIC President-Elect, I am eager to work closely with all of you to continue advancing our shared mission. Together, we can break barriers, foster collaboration, and create a future where pain management is guided by innovation, compassion, and excellence.
Thank you for your support, and I look forward to the journey ahead.
Esther Pogatzki-Zahn
President-Elect, European Pain Federation EFIC®
Caterina Aurilio is a Full Professor in Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, and Pain Management at the University of Campania L. Vanvitelli since 2001. She served as the Chief Executive of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care, and Pain Clinic at University Hospital Vanvitelli in Naples. Caterina has played key roles in national and international pain management efforts, including serving as President of AISD from 2012 to 2014 and National Coordinator of Pain Management and Palliative Care for SIAARTI from 2015 to 2018. She has directed the Postgraduate School of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, and Pain Management since 2012, as well as masterclasses in Palliative Care and Pain Management. Additionally, she is a Professor in the Doctorate of Translational Medicine and has been a reviewer at the National Agency for Evaluation of Universities and Research (ANVUR) since 2015. Caterina’s leadership and contributions to pain education and clinical practice have earned her widespread recognition in the field.
Please find a brief statement from her below:
Dear colleagues,
I would like to sincerely thank you for your support and trust. The activities of the European Pain Foundation EFIC present a valuable opportunity to inspire the next generation of scientists by fostering an environment for knowledge sharing, exchanges, and professional networking. I strongly believe that collaboration among professionals from different countries across Europe is key to advancing scientific research and ensuring the swift integration of new discoveries into clinical practice. As I step into this new role, I am fully committed to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to me and working hard to meet your expectations.
Thank you for your support, and I look forward to working together in the years to come.
Caterina Aurilio
Honorary Secretary, European Pain Federation EFIC®
