We would like to congratulate Dr Jane Quinlan, Consultant in Anaesthetics and Pain Management at Oxford University Hospitals NHS FT and OH BRC researcher in our Pain Theme, who has been awarded the British Pain Society Lecture and Medal presented at the Society’s Annual Scientific Meeting 2025 where she delivered the flagship plenary lecture.
The award is a recognition reserved for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of pain, and acknowledges Dr Quinlan’s pioneering work in the management of prescribed opioid dependence (POD), an area that remains under-recognised despite its growing importance in pain care
Over the past decade, Dr Quinlan has led one of the UK’s few specialist clinics dedicated to supporting patients with chronic pain and POD. Her clinical leadership, combined with her commitment to education and advocacy, has helped shape safer opioid prescribing practices and brought much-needed attention to a vulnerable patient population.
In her plenary lecture, Dr Quinlan highlighted the complexities of opioid tapering and the need for compassionate, evidence-based approaches. She also shared insights from her ongoing research collaboration with OH BRC researcher and University of Oxford Associate Professor Katja Wiech and Sanda van Kruining Kodele, which explores how best to support patients through the tapering process.
The British Pain Society Lecture is more than a professional milestone; it is a celebration of impact. Selected by the Society’s Scientific Programme Committee, the award recognises excellence in applied science, clinical innovation, health policy, education, and patient advocacy.
Reflecting on the award, Dr Quinlan said:
“This recognition is not just for me, but for the patients whose experiences have shaped my work. As clinicians, we reassured patients that opioids were safe and effective for their chronic pain, so that they took those drugs as directed. We now know opioids to be unhelpful and unsafe, so it is our responsibility to support these patients in their tapering and cessation, with understanding and respect. This award shines a light on a group that is often overlooked and reinforces the importance of listening, learning, and evolving our approach to pain management.”
You can contact our Pain Theme for more information: Pain.OHBRC@ndcn.ox.ac.uk
