Prof. Dimos-Dimitrios Mitsikostas | Migraine | Best Researcher Award
Professor at National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece
Prof. Dimos-Dimitrios D. Mitsikostas is a highly respected Professor of Neurology at the Aeginition Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. He is recognized worldwide for his expertise in headaches, placebo and nocebo research, and multiple sclerosis. As head of the Headache Outpatient Department and Ward A of Emergency Neurology and Stroke, he combines academic leadership with excellence in clinical care. He has published extensively, holds significant editorial responsibilities, and has served in leadership roles in major neurological societies, making him a leading voice in modern neurology.
Professional Profile
Educational Background
Prof. Mitsikostas graduated in medicine from the School of Medicine at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He obtained his PhD in experimental neuropharmacology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. He completed his residency training in neurology at the Aeginition Hospital in Athens. His postdoctoral studies took place at Harvard Medical School in Boston and the Institute of Neurology at University College London, where he specialized in experimental molecular pharmacology of cephalic pain. This strong academic foundation has guided his lifelong dedication to both clinical and experimental neurology.
Professional Experience
Before his appointment at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Prof. Mitsikostas served as head of the Neurology Department at the Athens Naval Hospital within the Hellenic Navy. At present, he leads the Headache Outpatient Department and Emergency Neurology and Stroke Ward at Aeginition Hospital. His professional roles extend beyond clinical service, as he currently serves as President of the Hellenic Headache Society, former President of the Executive Board of the European Headache Federation, and member of committees within the European Academy of Neurology. These positions highlight his influence in both national and international neurology.
Research Interests
His main research interests focus on headache pathophysiology and treatment, placebo and nocebo mechanisms in neurology, and the clinical management of multiple sclerosis. He has been actively involved in numerous clinical trials, contributing to the development of new treatments and improving patient care. His work has advanced understanding of cephalic pain mechanisms, placebo effects in neurology, and disease-modifying approaches in multiple sclerosis. He has authored more than 220 peer-reviewed publications, with over 25,000 citations and an h-index of 56, reflecting the global impact of his research. He has also edited or co-edited eight textbooks that remain important references in clinical neurology.
Awards and Honors
Prof. Mitsikostas has received recognition through his leadership roles in major neurological societies, notably his presidency of the Hellenic Headache Society and the European Headache Federation. He has been invited to lecture at national and international levels, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge in headache medicine and neurology. His appointment as Associate Editor for leading journals such as the Journal of Headache and Pain and Frontiers in Neurology, along with his service as reviewer and advisory board member for numerous international journals, represents acknowledgment of his scientific authority and expertise.
Research Skills
He is highly skilled in experimental neuropharmacology, clinical trial design, and translational research that bridges laboratory discoveries with patient-centered care. His expertise spans advanced molecular pharmacology of cephalic pain, evaluation of placebo and nocebo effects, and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies for neurological diseases. His contributions also extend into editorial and advisory work, where he ensures the advancement and integrity of research publications in neurology. His skills in leadership and collaborative research have made him an influential figure within international networks of neurologists and clinical scientists.
Publication Top Notes
Conclusion
Prof. Dimos-Dimitrios D. Mitsikostas stands out as a leading neurologist, educator, and researcher with significant contributions to headache medicine, placebo and nocebo research, and multiple sclerosis. His clinical expertise, academic leadership, and research productivity have left a lasting mark on the field of neurology. Through his scholarly publications, editorial roles, and leadership in professional societies, he has influenced the advancement of neuroscience and improved treatment approaches for patients. His career reflects a rare combination of clinical excellence, scientific rigor, and global leadership, ensuring his continued impact on neurology both within Greece and internationally.