The Watershed: Early Career Stroke Debates

Sponsored by the Stroke Council Early Career Committee
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Where early career voices shape the future of stroke care through high‑energy, evidence‑based debate.

Apply for ISC 2027
Learn About The Watershed
Patricipants on the 2026 Stroke Early Career Debates pose during the International Stroke Conference 2026.

What is the Watershed?

The Watershed is an annual debate forum created by the American Heart Association Stroke Council Early Career Committee to spotlight emerging leaders in stroke neurology, neurocritical care, and academic medicine. Early Career members present live at the International Stroke Conference, engaging the community on timely, unresolved controversies.

Purpose of the Watershed

  • Elevate Early Career voices
  • Promote rigorous, scholarly debate and critical thinking
  • Explore controversies shaping modern stroke care and training
  • Strengthen communication and leadership skills
  • Build a lasting archive of early career perspectives

ISC 2027 Debate Topics

Topic 1 — Mandatory Telestroke Training

Pro: Stroke fellowship should require a mandatory telestroke rotation.

Con: Telestroke exposure during stroke fellowship should be considered optional.

Topic 2 — Early Career Professionals as Stroke Directors

Pro: Early Career professionals should be considered for roles as stroke directors.

Con: Early Career professionals should not be considered for roles as stroke directors.

Call for Participation

Early Career members—including MD, DO, PhD, and other doctoral‑level professionals—are invited to select one topic and argue either the Pro or Con side in their application.

Apply to Participate in The Watershed

Submission Requirements

  1. Choose one of the 2027 topics
  2. Select Pro or Con
  3. Provide 5–10 structured arguments (bullet points welcome)
  4. Submit as Word or PDF, up to 500 words 
  5. Complete and submit the application form

Eligibility

Open to Early Career members active in research and within 10 years of completing a terminal degree or highest certificate (e.g., MSc, PhD), or within 10 years of completing a medical fellowship or residency. Members meeting these criteria, including trainees, are invited to participate. Trainees include medical students, residents, and fellows.

Use of AI / Automated Assistive Writing Technologies and Tools

  1. The use of automated assistive writing technologies and tools (commonly referred to as artificial intelligence or machine learning tools) is permitted provided their use is documented, and authors assume responsibility for the content. The authors are responsible for the accuracy, validity and originality of computer-generated content. Automated assistive writing technologies do not qualify for authorship as they are unable to provide approval or consent for submission.
  2. If the use of these technologies has been used to carry out or generate analytical work, the tools utilized should be documented in the abstract.
  3. Not acceptable use:
    1. AI-generated abstract with minimal or no human revision
    2. AI-generated scientific ideas, claims, data, or conclusions
  4. For additional information, see the World Association of Medical Editor recommendations
  5. For your abstract submission, you will need to indicate the use of these tools.