In another exciting migraine research update for the start of 2026, the Neurological Foundation awarded the VJ Chapman Fellowship to Dr Sue Meredith, to develop and test an online workplace migraine education programme in Canada.
The VJ Chapman Fellowship funds a NZ neurology trainee to go overseas for research and clinical experience, so they can bring back new knowledge and expertise to apply in New Zealand. A migraine workplace programme evaluated in a large company in Japan resulted in improved understanding and attitudes to migraine in the workplace and both reduced disability and increased productivity for employees with migraine.
The findings of Dr Meredith’s research could be used to support similar initiatives in Aotearoa NZ, which would help address the stigma and difficulties with work reported by people with migraine in this country.
“I am very grateful to the New Zealand Neurological Foundation for their generous support in funding a fellowship in Headache Neurology through the University of Toronto in 2026,” says Dr Sue Meredith.
“This support will allow me to gain specialist skills and knowledge also to carry out research on the impact of migraine education in the workplace. On my return in 2027 I plan to bring these skills back to work as a headache specialist, providing care to New Zealanders with migraine and continuing important research on the topic.”
Congratulations Sue and we look forward to seeing you back in New Zealand next year and the results and impact of this research. Thank you to the Neurological Foundation for funding vital migraine research.
Further reading
New research funded to investigate who’s missing out on migraine care in Aotearoa NZ
