Grants

NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Project Summary The Neural Development Gordon Research Conference (GRC) is a premier, international scientific conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science through the presentation of cutting-edge and unpublished re- search, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages. The conference program includes a broad range of speakers and discussion leaders from insti- tutions and organizations worldwide, concentrating on the latest developments in the field. The conference is five days long and held in a remote location to increase the sense of camaraderie and create scientific commu- nities. In addition to premier talks, the conference has designated time for poster sessions and afternoon free The 2026 GRC on Neural Development at Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island USA will bring together scientists who investigate fundamental questions related to nervous system development, using molecular, cellular and organismal approaches. Topics include the genesis of neurons and glia, cell lineages, cell-cell communication including with CNS-resident immune, vascular and fibroblasts, and the assembly of neural circuitry. time, and communal meals allow for informal networking opportunities with leaders in the field. Our excep- tional speakers will address cutting-edge questions including how evolution shaped the emergence and diversi- fication of extant nervous systems, how developmental mechanisms prime the nervous system for future function In line with these broad topics, speakers employ a range of classical and emerging model organisms including flies, frog, fish, mice, ferrets, and non-human primates. They also use state-of-the art human-cell based models like neural organoids. The invited speakers employ broad approaches including: molecular genetic techniques and genomic approaches such as transcriptomic and epigenetic profiling; single cell mRNA sequencing and lineage barcoding; CRISPR-based manipulations and screens; live-imaging and high-resolution microscopy; neuroimaging and human genetics. The meeting will promote extensive exchanges between junior and senior scientists from different career stages, geographic locations and scientific interests. This collegial atmosphere will be fostered through interactions at talks, poster sessions, meals, and informal gatherings during free time. Networking will be promoted with journal editors and members of funding agencies that support research in this field. There will also be many short talks selected from abstracts, which will feature the most exciting recent work by early-career researchers We en- courage applications from researchers across institutions, career stages, countries, and relevant scientific topics, with the goal of having broad participants to enrich the meeting. A GRS is reserved for trainees only, including PhD students and postdocs. This will precede the meeting, and is organized and run by trainees, and will include sessions on related topics along with an invited keynote speaker. and how the nervous system ages under healthy and pathological conditions. .

Up to $20K

2027-04-30

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Neural Genetics and Epigenetics Gordon Research Conference

NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The inaugural 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Neural Genetics and Epigenetics at Colby-Sawyer College in New London, New Hampshire, is to bring together leading and emerging scientists from around the world to explore how genetic and epigenetic mechanisms shape brain development, function, and plasticity, with a particular emphasis on early-life processes, during the process of aging, and in response to environmental factors such as drugs of abuse and others. While the inaugural program is development-focused, concentrating on the fundamental molecular players of epigenetics, the conference is also developed to building connections to later-life brain health and environmental influences. Speakers will showcase advances in single-cell sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, spatial epigenomics, genome editing, and high-resolution imaging, as well as discuss the ethical, legal, and social considerations of applying genetic and epigenetic research in developing therapeutics. A wide range of model systems will be represented, from invertebrates to vertebrates, as well as human tissue, induced pluripotent stem cells, and brain organoids. The inaugural theme, “Evolving understandings of the molecular players in neuroepigenetics,” will anchor a five-day program designed to foster active exchange among scientists at all career stages through talks, poster sessions, workshops and informal discussions. The sponsoring organization, GRC, is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of science. In accordance with GRC’s mission, this conference will place emphasis on the presentation of unpublished data, high-quality science and rich discussions in genetics and epigenetics in the nervous system. We anticipate that the opportunities provided to young investigators participating in this conference will facilitate their rise as future leaders in the neural genetics and epigenetics community.

Up to $25K

2027-07-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Neural Mechanisms of Acoustic Communication Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NIDCD - National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Project Summary In its third installment, the Neural Mechanisms of Acoustic Communication (NMAC) Gordon Research Conference (GRC), along with the associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS), will convene on May 30-June 5, 2026 at the Jordan River hotel in Sunday River, Maine to discuss and debate new findings in communication research and related fields. The NMAC GRC will enable investigators of all ranks with wide-ranging expertise and from a variety of sub-fields to interact, leveraging the intimate size and extended discussion time of the traditional GRC format to enable fertile scientific discourse. This meeting fulfills a unique niche within the landscape of existing conferences through its focus on comparative and mechanistic approaches to the study of neural circuits that mediate interactive vocal behavior across taxa that represent 800 million years of evolution. The interactive ability to exchange information is a central and defining feature of all communication systems and helps organize social behavior. As such, a comparative approach to the study of the neural mechanisms underlying acoustic communication lends insight into general mechanisms of neural function, leads to the development of novel analytical and experimental techniques and paves the way to novel treatments of dysfunction in human communication systems. The 2026 NMAC has three specific aims: 1) To advance acoustic communication research by offering an environment that encourages questions and discussion, challenges current thinking, identifies open questions, and provides opportunities for new collaborations; 2) to create a unique forum for interaction for researchers with different perspectives on acoustic communication and break down boundaries that exist between communities focused on different model systems, brain regions, and research approaches; and 3) to educate new and early career investigators. To provide greater opportunities for impactful junior scientists, we are including “next generation talks” where the chairs will pick 4 graduate students or postdocs from the GRS to present at the GRC meeting. In addition, at least 2 talks per session will be selected from submitted abstracts with the aim to feature early career researchers, including graduate students, postdocs, and assistant professors. Mentorship opportunities will include themed lunches where 1-3 scientists informally discuss topics of interest with graduate students and postdoctoral scientists, such as securing a postdoctoral or faculty job, starting a laboratory, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Taken together, NMAC aims to create conversations that will achieve a mechanistic and unifying understanding of the neural underpinnings of acoustic communication by uncovering broadly relevant algorithms and general principles. These exchanges will advance acoustic communication research by encouraging new ideas and collaborations, highlighting excellence in the field, and inspiring the next generation of scientists to accelerate the pace of discovery and translation to the clinic, consistent with the mission of NIH.

Up to $60K

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2026 Neurobiology of Cognition Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

PROJECT SUMMARY The Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on the Neurobiology of Cognition has been a flagship meeting for this highly interdisciplinary field since its inception in 2010. The 2026 convocation will be the eighth meeting in the series. The long-term goal of the conference is to improve the treatment of cognitive disorders through a better understanding of human cognitive function in health and disease. To this end, the conference has four main goals: To promote discussion and collaboration between scientists working in different domains of cognitive neuroscience; to highlight important recent discoveries and gaps in our knowledge; to encourage intensive discussion of new and unpublished findings that have the potential to change the field; to enhance the career- long growth of scientists in the field, with a particular emphasis on junior scientists and trainees. To achieve these aims, the conference brings together leading experts with early-career scientists and trainees for a weeklong experience characterized by both cutting-edge research presentations and relaxed interactions. Broad topics to be covered include memory, decision-making, perception, action, and social cognition. GRC speakers are encouraged to present and emphasize new results and cutting-edge laboratory techniques. In addition, two sessions on topics of emerging interest are introduced to the itinerary this year: one devoted to the interface of cognitive neuroscience and artificial intelligence, and the other focused on advances in transcranial and intracranial neuromodulation in the context of basic research and clinical treatment. Twenty-nine invited speakers will join approximately 120 additional investigators and trainees for the weeklong conference. The GRC will be preceded by the Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on the Neurobiology of Cognition, geared toward graduate students and postdoc attendees. The GRC format fosters communication and collaboration by hosting the meeting in a remote location and encouraging all attendees to participate for the entire week. Speakers are invited on the basis of their availability to stay for the entire conference, with exemptions reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The 9 GRC sessions begin with the first session Sunday evening, and two per day Monday through Thursday. Daily meals are held together in a communal dining room, and free time for recreational activities and informal scientific discourse is left open in the afternoon. This meeting structure helps to break down barriers between topic subfields and career ranks, and provides unique networking and mentorship opportunities. The organizers of the GRC and GRS make extensive efforts to select speakers who represent perspectives from across the field. Priority for acceptance to the attend the meeting and for funding support will be given to trainees. Through its 14-year history, the Neurobiology of Cognition GRC has helped to grow this field and has fostered career growth and new collaborations. The chairs of the GRS and GRC expect the 2026 meeting will be another successful rendition of this flagship meeting.

Up to $15K

2027-02-28

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Neurobiology of Drug Addiction Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NIDA - National Institute on Drug Abuse

In this R13 application we request support for the 4th Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on “Neurobiology of Drug Addiction,” taking place in May 2026 in Castelldefels, Spain. The objectives of this GRC are to foster open discussion of novel research developments, build new collaborations, and propel the next generation of both scientific advances in addiction research and addiction neuroscience researchers. To achieve these objectives, we will pursue the following four specific aims at the meeting: 1) To create an international forum that will promote deeper understanding of the neurobiology of addiction, based on groundbreaking findings from basic science, clinical, and community focused research; 2) Introduce novel and emerging research techniques to facilitate understanding of drug addiction; 3) Promote interdisciplinary interactions amongst addiction researchers, stimulating the exchange of ideas and collaborations that will advance the field of addiction research; and 4) Foster the development of the next generation of addiction researchers by facilitating and encouraging the participation of students, postdoctoral fellows, and early career investigators. The conference focuses on presentations and discussions at the frontiers of addiction research. The scope of the lectures will be confined to basic and clinical studies involving addictive drugs (including alcohol) and the nervous system and will focus on mechanisms of compulsive drug use, relapse, and vulnerability to addiction. The meeting will also break down barriers to progress by uniting investigators with synergistic and complementary expertise in areas ranging from molecular mechanisms to translational clinical research, community focused research, and addiction theory. The conference will provide a forum to address the latest developments in addiction research in an open and highly interactive GRC format, which includes formal talks interspersed with ample discussion time, poster sessions, and informal discussion periods that cultivate communication and collaborations. This conference setup differs from that of other meetings in the field and will provide a unique opportunity for close interactions among investigators at all stages of their careers and among investigators with different research approaches and cultural perspectives. Concerted efforts to support participation of students, postdoctoral fellows, early-stage investigators, and rigorous scientists from across a range of backgrounds and intellectual foundations in addiction research will nurture the growth of the next generation of addiction researchers. We will hold an accompanying Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) in 2026 immediately prior to the GRC, as we did in previous years. The GRS will provide a forum for students and postdoctoral fellows. In addition, a substantial number of GRC talks will be delivered by early career scientists. We envision that the Neurobiology of Drug Addiction GRC will continue to significantly advance our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying drug addiction and stimulate the development of novel hypotheses, research directions, and therapeutic approaches.

2027-02-28

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Northeast Society for Developmental Biology (NESDB) meeting

NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Project Summary. In May 2026, the Northeastern Society for Developmental Biology (NESDB) will host its annual regional meeting at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, MA. This conference convenes researchers from across the northeastern U.S. to share new discoveries in developmental biology, with a strong emphasis on trainee participation and community building. NESDB provides a critical platform for early-career scientists to present their research, build networks, and explore a broad range of scientific perspectives. The 2026 meeting will feature keynote lectures, invited talks, contributed oral presentations, undergraduate flash talks, poster sessions, and workshops on science communication and advocacy. We are requesting funds to 1) support event logistics such as venue and A/V costs, 2) provide financial assistance to trainees and early-career researchers through reduced registration fees and travel support, including provisions for childcare, and 3) offset the cost of attendance of invited speakers, so that we can attract scientists from many different types of institutions. By expanding participation and access, this meeting will advance both scientific exchange and professional development in the developmental biology community.

Up to $20K

2027-03-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Optics and Photonics in Medicine and Biology Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NIBIB - National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering

PROJECT SUMMARY The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Optics and Photonics in Medicine and Biology (OPMB) continues the nearly six-decade tradition of inspiring and educating current and future generations of interdisciplinary scientists, engineers, and clinicians. This conference, which began in 1965, has consistently received among the highest satisfaction ratings of all GRC meetings and is widely regarded as of of the premiere forums for fostering creative research and generating new ideas in biophotonics – the science and engineering of light, lasers, and optical technologies applied to medicine and biology. The primary objective of the 2026 meeting is to bring together researchers from academia, clinical institutions, national laboratories, and industry to advance the use of light, lasers, and optical technologies in both fundamental biological discovery and clinical care. The 2026 theme, “From Enabling Technologies to Clinical Applications: Advancing Science and Medicine with Light”, captures the breadth of this bench-to-bedside continuum. Specific aims are to: (1) foster scientific exchange among researchers at the cutting edge of biophotonics; (2) integrate fundamental discovery, technological innovation, and applications ranging from basic biology and biophysics to clinical translation; and (3) strengthen and renew the international biophotonics community by promoting personal interactions between junior and senior participants—including graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, early-career investigators, senior scientists, laboratory heads, industry representatives and government program leaders—in an informal, engaging environment. The program will ensure broad representation across disciplines, geography, career stages, and demographics. All speakers will be encouraged to present new, unpublished, and scientifically significant (and occasionally provocative) research in the “frontiers-of-science, off the record” GRC tradition. The intimate scale and immersive format provide unparallelled opportunities for networking and scientific discussion. To enhance trainee engagement, the meeting will be preceded by the successful Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on OPMB—a 1.5 day forum organized by and for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows (initiated in 2018). The conference aligns strongly with the NIH mission to advance knowledge in living systems, reduce disease, and improve health. This R13 proposal seeks support to offset registration and travel costs for graduate students, post-docs, and early-career investigators, thereby encouraging the participation and active engagement of the next generation of leaders in biophtotonics.

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Photosensory Receptors and Signal Transduction Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NEI - National Eye Institute

Project Summary The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Photosensory Receptors and Signal Transduction (PRST) will be held in Ventura CA. The conference incorporates leading experts on diverse photosensory systems allowing for a comprehensive understanding of how nature employs cofactor chemistry to allow organisms to sense and adapt to their lighting environment. A comprehensive understanding of photoreception and signal transduction has a wide impact on human health and disease. For instance, for vertebrate vision subtle defects within the phototransduction pathway impacts retinal development and retinal degeneration, leading to conditions such as photophobia, visual acuity, night-blindness, loss of vision, as well as numerous other disorders of vision. Notably, defects in non-visual photo responsive systems within the eye have also been implicated in mood and sleep disorders, circadian dysfunction, and pupillary responses. To address these issues, it is essential to dissect and delineate how subtle alteration in cofactor identity, protein structure, and signaling pathways impacts defects in signaling and/or facilitates evolutionary adaptation to unique lighting environments. As a result, the format of the conference is unique in three essential elements: 1) Invited speakers will cover the entire range of physical, chemical, and biological factors gating light-responsive signal transduction in organisms. The comprehensive focus beginning from initial photon absorption, changes in cofactor chemistry, and structural transitions in photoreceptor proteins, to changes in organism physiology and ecological impacts affords unprecedented insight into how organisms harness photon absorption to mediate physiological responses. 2) Invited speakers cover the entire range of natural photoreceptors, providing deep understanding of how nature tunes small molecule cofactors, protein structure, and signaling pathways to allow for exquisite sensitivity to a wide range of wavelengths and light intensities. 3) These elements allow for an additional focus on applied practical applications to harness or manipulate photoreceptor function through optogenetic tools, or interventional treatments. The program structure and invited speakers for the GRC and associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) are designed to maximize interaction between established investigators, new investigators, and trainees from diverse disciplines to foster an exchange of ideas and scientific viewpoints to catalyze new interdisciplinary approaches to delineate photosensory responses and to engineer new technologies. The GRS provides an opportunity for junior scientists to meet and present their work in an environment of peers prior to the GRC. The GRS incorporates social, scientific, and mentoring to develop a sense of belonging, community, and inclusivity. Mentoring sessions have been chosen to encompass both academic and industrial career pathways to facilitate career growth and networking opportunities. The thoughtfully coordinated PRST GRC/GRS will position researchers to address the field’s most critical scientific challenges, while also motivating trainees to leverage their expertise in pursuit of emerging frontiers in photochemistry and photobiology.

Up to $18K

2027-01-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Pittsburgh International Lung Conference: The Evolving Landscape of COPD: Bridging New Mechanisms and Emerging Therapies

NHLBI - National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

SUMMARY This application requests partial funding for the 2026 Pittsburgh International Lung Conference (PILC): “The Evolving Landscape of COPD: Bridging New Mechanisms and Emerging Therapies.” COPD is a leading cause of death worldwide, and while research has advanced, understanding of treatable mechanisms is still limited. Recent progress in new approach methodologies, omics and biologics offers new opportunities, but collaboration across research fields remains insufficient. Overcoming challenges in COPD requires multidisciplinary cooperation across multiple fields: basic and translational science, epidemiology, genetics, bioengineering, computational biology, and clinical research and implementation. The dedicated PILC 2026 conference will bring together basic, translational, and clinical researchers to share new methods, findings, foster collaborations, and inspire both established and emerging investigators to pursue novel research directions. The two-day program will include a keynote, seven main sessions covering topics such as the exposome, gene-to-function studies, regenerative medicine, aging, immunity, diagnostics, comorbidities, and biologics, plus a special session on AI. Interspaced with these sessions will be panel discussions, poster sessions, and a formal dinner with a lecture. The conference organizers will facilitate interaction between participants, thought leaders, early career faculty, and community providers throughout the conference. Speakers will include medical professionals (MDs, PhDs, and RNs) from leading worldwide academic institutions. Bringing together experts from multiple backgrounds will accelerate the translation of discoveries into new treatments, highlight recent breakthroughs, and promote innovative approaches to patient care. We propose the following aims: (1) To provide a safe, collaborative environment for basic, translational, and clinical researchers to disseminate and discuss recent scientific advances and emerging clinical approaches in our understanding of COPD. We aim to organize a successful meeting during September 17- 18th, 2026, in Pittsburgh, PA, attracting the top and emerging scientists, trainees, and community providers. Interaction will be facilitated via panel discussions, question and answer sessions, dinner talks, shared meals, and poster sessions. Talks will be given, ample time will be provided for questions and discussion, and the atmosphere will be conducive to interaction. (2) To promote the interaction of students, clinical trainees, post-doctoral trainees, and early career faculty with established investigators. Travel awards will be targeted to these participants. Essentially, all participants will be able to present a poster. Each of the seven sessions will feature a presentation from early career faculty or fellows/trainees. Early career faculty will participate as co-chairs. In addition, a pre-conference Early Career Day organized by early career investigators with presentations by early career scientists and breakout session focused on training and career development. By connecting multidisciplinary experts, the conference aims to accelerate discoveries and improve COPD care.

Up to $35K

2027-07-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Plan of Conservation and Development

East Granby

2026 Plan of Conservation and Development

Up to $50K

Rolling

environment

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NHLBI - National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis and the associated Gordon Graduate Research Seminar (GRS) are paired conferences held sequentially at the same location in Ventura, CA. The GRS will take place on February 7-8, and the GRC on February 8-13, 2026. The GRC has been held continuously every two years since 1990 and enjoys an outstanding international reputation. In this 20th GRC, we will discuss breakthrough findings in plasminogen activation and extracellular proteolysis in areas such as vascular biology, central nervous system function and dysfunction, trauma, tissue homeostasis and regeneration, hematopoiesis, angiogenesis, stem cell biology, metabolism and obesity, tumor biology, cardiovascular function, and aging. For the 2026 GRC meeting, emphasis will be placed on bringing together the biomedical practice with the biology of plasminogen activation and other extracellular proteases, their effectors and associated pathways, as they are relevant to multiple diseases and disorders. Basic and Physician Scientists will discuss the relevant clinical needs and possible therapeutic strategies that can be accommodated using the knowledge generated through basic science. Early and mid-career investigators in the field will have the chance to present and discuss their new and exciting findings alongside senior, established researchers. Basic research, technological advances, and cutting-edge therapeutic approaches in the field of extracellular proteases will be debated and discussed, with the expectation that new collaborations and scientific discoveries will develop from these in-person interactions. Research themes of the 2026 GRC on Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis will capture the most exciting areas of contemporary cutting-edge research in the field. Emerging roles for molecules of the fibrinolytic system and other proteases in pathologic settings such as cancer, cardio- and cerebrovascular disease, metabolic complications, aging, trauma, and neurological diseases will be presented. The development and application of novel technologies in the field will also be discussed. Each session will include a discussion of how basic research in our field can help conquer human disease. The associated GRS will provide a venue for pre- and postdoctoral trainees to discuss their research in a collaborative and stimulating environment to help build their informal network of peers and colleagues. We expect that the 2026 Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis GRC and GRS will bring together a group of highly motivated and interactive participants with different scientific backgrounds to engage in intensive discussions at the frontier of research related to the plasminogen activation system and associated extracellular proteases in an “off-the-record” fashion. The information gained from this meeting will advance the plasminogen activation/extracellular proteolysis field by teaching us about additional direct and nuanced roles for these proteins, which should in turn stimulate the development of new applications and strategies to improve the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of a wide range of diseases.

Up to $40K

2027-01-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Post-Transcriptional Gene Regulation Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NCI - National Cancer Institute

PROJECT SUMMARY The Post-Transcriptional Gene Regulation Gordon Research Conference (GRC) has been held every two years since 2004. This year’s 11th meeting subtitled “Biological Mechanisms and Applications of RNA”, continues to bring together RNA biologists who are at the forefront of research in post-transcriptional gene regulation. The objective of the conference is to advance the field by presentation and discussion of cutting- edge research. The meeting assembles a broad group of thought leaders at all career stages. Notably, the GRC requires that the work be unpublished, so the talks share unpublished findings. Moreover, there is ample time allocated for discussion after each talk. The community responds well to these guidelines, as the discussions at the Post-transcriptional Gene Regulation meetings are thorough and rigorous, thereby accomplishing Aim 1: stimulate the exchange of transformative ideas in post-transcriptional gene regulation to nucleate novel, interdisciplinary discovery, develop and disseminate new approaches for genome-scale research, and identify new therapeutic targets. The sixth meeting of the associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) “Features of RNA and RNA-Binding Proteins in Gene Expression” aims to achieve the same scientific goals in an exclusively trainee-driven context. The resulting peer-to-peer interactions foster community among participants, promoting scientific innovation, networking, and career development. Additionally, a separate session will be included to formally address the topic of mentorship, and GRS attendees will be encouraged and supported to engage with senior faculty and industry professionals at the associated GRC. The GRS and targeted engagement of trainees at the GRC will foster a collegial, trainee-focused environment that facilitates both the scientific and career development of attendees, thereby accomplishing Aim 2: develop the next generation of scientific leaders that will drive the field of post-transcriptional gene regulation forward. The translation of basic discoveries into medicine and biotech is a strength of the post-transcriptional gene regulation community, and this GRC has a strong history of engaged participation by scientists from industry. The organizers, invited speakers, and discussion leaders include many academic founders of scientific companies, providing leadership and support for Aim 3: facilitate the translation of academic discoveries in post-transcriptional gene regulation into new and improved RNA-targeted and RNA-based therapies.

Up to $14K

2027-06-30

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Proteoglycans Gordon Research Conference and Seminar

NIAMS - National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

Since 1984, the biennial Proteoglycans (PGs) Gordon Research Conference (GRC) has been an essential meeting for PG researchers. Recognized as the leading international forum for PG and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) research it brings together established and new PG researchers in a collegial and scientifically stimulating environment. Important to the meetings success is a history of a collegial atmosphere that fosters the dissemination of unpublished and emerging research that stimulates scientific discussions and collaborations among all attendees. This proposal is requesting partial support for the next PGs GRC, “Frontiers in Basic and Translational Proteoglycan Research to Improve Human Health,” which will be held from June 28th to July 3rd, 2026, and the associated PG GRS entitled, “Integrated Proteoglycan Research to Improve Human Health,” to be held on June 27th - 28th, 2026 at Proctor Academy, Andover, NH. An Executive Committee consisting of former Chairs of PGs GRCs plus organizers of meetings for the international conferences on PGs (ICP) and the International Society for Hyaluronan Sciences (ISHAS) offers input on the conference program. An advisory committee, consisting of expertise in various subfields in proteoglycan research, has been formed. Both committees provide expertise across a broad area, including fundamental, translational, and clinical PG research. The meeting will bring together highly regarded scientists performing impactful PG research and developing new techniques to support proteoglycan research advancement, some of whom will be attending this meeting for the first time. The invited scientists will present the latest findings in fundamental PG research addressing biosynthesis, catabolism, and technological advances in the field. A major focus of this GRC will be highlighting PGs as therapeutic tools and targets. To provide early-stage investigators an opportunity to highlight their research, the meeting program includes short talks during oral session and poster sessions each day. Short talks will be selected from abstracts to be complementary to the theme of the associated oral session. The scientific program aims to present state-of-the-art science to spark scientific discussions and collaborations, leading to the generation of new ideas, innovative research projects, and new grant proposals. The organizers have and will continue to pay careful attention to the participation from different stages in the scientific careers in all aspects of the conference. In the meeting, Dr. Kaori Oshima (MGH), Dr. Rob Ritcher (University of Alabama at Birmingham) and Dr. Paul DeAngelis (University of Oklahoma) will serve as panelists to talk about their experience in overcoming the challenges in academia and discussing different career opportunities for young graduate students and trainees. Attendees of this meeting will be selected by invitation or from the applications submitted online with careful attention. We expect approximately 200 attendees to this conference.

Up to $34K

2027-04-14

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Radionuclide Theranostics for the Management of Cancer Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NCI - National Cancer Institute

PROJECT SUMMARY The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Radionuclide Theranostics for the Management of Cancer, along with the preceding Gordon Research Seminar (GRS), is a premier scientific meeting designed to advance the field of radionuclide-based diagnostics and therapeutics for cancer treatment. Set within the retreat-style format of GRC, the conference will convene a diverse, interdisciplinary community of academic and industry scientists, physicists, oncologists, clinicians, and regulatory leaders to address critical barriers limiting the clinical translation, global accessibility, and optimal use of theranostics in cancer medicine. The objectives of the conference are fourfold: foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, accelerate translational research, support early- career scientists, and promote scientific rigor through the exchange of unpublished data and open dialogue. The meeting’s theme, “Theranostics Reimagined: Interrogating Biology, Empowering Translation,” reflects its focus on three foundational challenges: limited access to radioligand therapies worldwide, the complexity of cancer biology and patient stratification, and gaps in understanding dosimetry, immunologic interactions, and enhanced targeting strategies that lead to improved efficacy. These objectives will be met through nine formal topical sessions, poster presentations, provocative discussions, and dedicated networking opportunities that encourage interactive engagement among participants. The GRS will provide a dedicated platform for trainees to present cutting-edge research and receive mentorship. With its progressive agenda and intimate format, this GRC is uniquely positioned to shape the future of radionuclide theranostics and precision oncology, and aligns closely with National Cancer Institute’s mission to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients through research- driven advances in cancer care.

Up to $4K

2027-06-30

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Scientific and Medical Conference on Barth Syndrome: Navigating the Transitionfrom Proof-of-Concept to Clinical Product

NHLBI - National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Project Summary Barth syndrome (BTHS) is an ultra-rare (~350 individuals identified worldwide), life-limiting genetic disorder characterized by cardiomyopathy, skeletal muscle myopathy, neutropenia, gastrointestinal issues, and debilitating fatigue [1]. In September 2025, FDA granted accelerated approval of FORZINITY™ (elamipretide) for U.S. patients ³30 kilograms in weight [2]. Although this marks a critical milestone in the therapeutic landscape, the drug is not curative and there remains substantial clinical unmet need. Mortality disproportionately affects young children, with deaths primarily driven by cardiac- related clinical manifestations [3-4], yet the drug is only approved for individuals ~12 years and older. Drug development for this ultra-rare condition is incredibly challenging, hampered by limitations in resources and insufficient commercial interest considering the small number of people affected. Despite these obstacles, the Barth Syndrome Foundation (BSF)–a patient group for those affected by BTHS– has made its mission to save lives through education, advances in treatments, and finding a cure for the disease. A cornerstone program for BSF to eventually realize this mission is the biennial Scientific and Medical Conference on Barth Syndrome. Since 2000, BSF has held a Barth-focused biennial conference that provides a unique opportunity to stimulate new clinical and scientific progress and forge collaborations by bringing together physicians, healthcare providers, researchers, affected individuals, and their families. At the previous 2024 conference, the theme was clinical trial readiness, a critical milestone for continued therapeutic development. Moreover, ahead of publication, a seminal discovery was announced that identified a novel, druggable target for therapeutic intervention [5]. Leveraging our learnings and successes from 2024, the theme for 2026 is “Navigating the Transition from Proof-of-Concept to Clinical Product.” The “2026 Scientific and Medical Conference on Barth Syndrome: Navigating the Transition from Proof- of-Concept to Clinical Product,” is the only forum dedicated to furthering clinical and scientific progress in BTHS that brings together physicians, healthcare providers, researchers, affected individuals and their families. A major focus of our programming for 2026 is geared toward advancing early-stage academic discoveries toward clinical application, evaluating the therapeutic and regulatory landscape, and supporting the new generation of BTHS researchers. This is paramount to our collective goal of a world where BTHS no longer causes suffering or loss of life.

Up to $56K

2027-06-30

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NIBIB - National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering

Project Summary The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex biopolymer network that defines the structure and mechanics of solid tissue and can profoundly regulate cell function in development, physiology, and disease. As a result, there has been an enormous effort to create engineered systems and biomaterials that mimic tissue properties and model cell-ECM crosstalk to increase our knowledge of basic biological processes and stimulate therapeutic discovery. To promote continued discovery and translation in this exciting field while nurturing the next generation of talent, we seek support for the 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices (STEEM). The STEEM GRC/GRS is widely viewed as the premier venue for sharing and discussing cutting-edge developments in ECM science and engineering. Over the past quarter-century, STEEM has played a leadership role in bringing together biologists, engineers, materials and physical scientists, and related disciplinary experts into a common forum. STEEM has played a key role in incubating interdisciplinary topics such as mechanobiology, biofabrication, engineered regeneration, and organoid technologies. In the 2026 meeting, we will build on these advances and explore several questions that will define the next decade of work in the field under the theme Matrix Matters and Designing Tissues Through Biological and Computational Insight. The GRC aims to: (1) Create a forum in which information and ideas are freely exchanged between researchers of varied but complementary backgrounds to enhance the potential of regenerative medicine, scaffold and cell-based therapies to improve human health; (2) Support early career investigators by exposing them to new and exciting ideas and opportunities in an environment that encourages collegial interactions; and (3) Bring together scientists across all experience levels, from trainees to senior scientists, across adjacent fields of expertise, and from a range of professional settings including academic labs to national labs, to small and large biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, to foster meaningful knowledge exchange and collaborations. The GRS aims to: (1) Provide early career investigators, especially graduate students and postdoctoral trainees, the opportunity to present their research in a forum organized by and for them; (2) Encourage lasting collegial interactions and initiation of collaborations between young investigators from adjacent fields; and (3) Provide a unique opportunity for these up and coming scientists in the field to receive career guidance from selected faculty mentors invited to the GRS.

2027-04-30

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Single-Cell Cancer Biology Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NCI - National Cancer Institute

Project Summary The 2026 Gordon Research Conference in Single Cell Cancer Biology (GRC-SCCB) is a 7-day conference that will be held March 21-27 at the Four Points Sheraton hotel in Ventura, California. The rapid advancement of single cell technologies has provided an unprecedented opportunity to answer longstanding questions about the impact of intratumor heterogeneity, cellular plasticity, clonal evolution, tumor-stroma interactions, and mechanisms of metastasis and therapeutic resistance. These questions have been difficult to address through characterization of bulk tissue samples, which are limited to providing an average signal from a complex population of cells. cancer, such as The specific aims of the 2026 GRC-SCCB are to 1) present new discoveries in cancer made using single cell approaches, 2) highlight technological and analytic advances for analyzing single cell data, 3) foster cross-disciplinary collaboration to drive new innovation and discovery, 4) promote clinical application of new technologies and discoveries, and 5) provide a forum for the scientific and career development of junior investigators. The meeting will bring together experts in industry and academia, with wide-ranged expertise in cancer biology, imaging, engineering, single cell technologies, computational biology, and clinical oncology to foster new ideas, collaborations, and leadership for the coming decade of rapid progress in in the field of single cell cancer biology.

2027-02-28

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Sleep Regulation and Function Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

SUMMARY: The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Sleep Regulation and Function, themed “Sleep for the Whole Organism,” will mark the seventh installment of this highly successful series. Over the course of the last decade, sleep research has experienced remarkable growth across a variety of disciplines, spanning molecular biology, systems neuroscience, and mental health. Advances in state-of-the-art technologies have enabled significant progress in our understanding of the neurocircuitry underlying non-REM and REM sleep, wakefulness, the roles of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, genetic contributions to sleep regulation, and the impact of sleep loss on transcriptional and translational dynamics. The 2026 GRC will build on this strong foundation while expanding into new frontiers. The program will explore sleep as a whole-organism behavior, integrating both brain and body perspectives. In addition to core sessions on sleep regulatory mechanisms and emerging findings from non- mammalian species, the conference will highlight recent findings on sleep’s roles in cognition, consciousness, interoception, and waste clearance from the brain. A session will examine the interplay between sleep and post- infectious disease states, reflecting growing interest in how immune challenges—including long-term consequences of viral infections—impact sleep regulation and homeostasis. The program will further emphasize bidirectional brain-body communication, with discussions on the bi-directional interaction between sleep and peripheral physiology, metabolic state, and systemic signals. Finally, the growing interface between artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) and sleep science will be showcased, illustrating how advanced computational tools are transforming data analysis, predictive modeling, and mechanistic discovery in the field. This GRC will comprise 50 invited speakers and discussion leaders, poster sessions, in the main meeting. It will be preceded by the GRS, which will provide opportunities specifically for graduate students and post-docs. The GRC and GRS will bring together scientists of all career stages in an interactive and safe environment.

Up to $20K

2027-03-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Streptococcal Diseases GRC/GRS

NIAID - National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

SUMMARY This R13 application requests funds to partially support the 2026 Streptococcal Biology Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Gordon Research Seminar (GRS). This will be the 4th iteration of the GRC, which has been highly successful in its prior years, consistently rated as “High-Performing” by the GRC Evaluation Committee. This will also be the 3rd meeting of the GRS, whose purpose is to foster development of the next generation of investigators and invite their active participation and integration into the broader research community. Both meetings will be held at the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco in Lucca, Italy, between August 1- 2 (GRS) and August 2-6 (GRC) of 2026. The 2026 GRC Chairs are Drs. José Lemos (University of Florida) and Kimberly Kline (University of Geneva) , who served as Co-Vice Chairs in 2024. Drs. Brek Duekorp (University of Colorado) and Melanie Hamon (Institute Pasteur) and Postdoctoral fellows Jessica Mendonça (University of Tennessee) and Ronni da Silva (Nanyang Technological University) will Co-Chair the GRC and GRS, respectively. The GRC/GRS program encompasses a wide range of exciting topics among important pathogens from the genera Streptococcus and Enterococcus. For both GRS and GRC, invited and abstract-selected speakers will discuss the most current and cutting-edge research in their fields, addressing topics that range from fundamental biology, clinical findings, genetics, genomics, virulence regulation, host-pathogen interactions, microbial communities, antimicrobial resistance, and therapeutic development. The major goal of this meeting is to bring together the world’s leading scientists and the most promising early-career investigators and trainees in a collegial and supportive environment. The specific strategies include but are not restricted to (i) provide a forum for the presentation of unpublished, cutting-edge research followed by formal and informal discussions; (ii) invite investigators focusing on diverse streptococcal and enterococcal pathogenic species and provide them with a forum to cross the boundaries of their own work; and (iii) ensure the development and integration of early- career investigators into the broader research community. The collegial atmosphere will include organized oral and poster sessions and opportunities for informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings, providing a welcoming setting for scientists from different disciplines to exchange ideas and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations among peers and the next generation of investigators. The proposed activities will provide an opportunity not currently offered to this field in any other global venue, bringing together established and emerging leaders in the streptococcal/enterococcal biology field in a format designed for the free exchange of research results and ideas. In the short term, this will greatly strengthen investigators’ ability worldwide to address critical challenges in streptococcal and enterococcal biology and diseases, while in the long term it will ensure continuity of knowledge through the development of new leaders in the field.

Up to $18K

2027-07-31

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2026 Synaptic Transmission Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Project Abstract The 2026 Synaptic Transmission Gordon Research Conference will bring together an array of scientific leaders and early-career scientists to discuss the latest developments and cutting-edge insights into the synaptic mechanisms that control the nervous system in health and disease. Synapses are the fundamental unit of information transfer in the nervous system underpinning the diversity of information encoding that enables complex adaptive behaviors across species. Dysregulation and degeneration of synapses are central to the pathophysiology of most, neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, elucidating the molecular and cellular principles governing synaptic biology is essential for understanding brain function and for the development of therapeutics to treat currently incurable brain disorders. This year’s program integrates pioneering research across a broad range of topics, including synapse development, nanoscale organization, signaling, Hebbian plasticity and homeostasis, the synaptic basis of behavior, and how synaptic dysfunction leads to brain disorders. A strong emphasis will be placed on cross-disciplinary dialogue and mechanistic insights, spanning molecular events to circuit-level phenomena throughout the sessions. The long-term goal of the 2026 Synaptic Transmission is to advance mechanistic insight, foster innovation, and bridge basic and translational neuroscience. Specifically, this meeting will focus on elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern synapse formation, specificity, and diversity across neural circuits. Secondly, to reveal how synaptic plasticity unfolds across timescales, from milliseconds to years, and how these dynamic processes are integrated to drive learning, memory, and behavior. Finally, we will identify novel pathways for therapeutic intervention.by determining how disruptions in synaptic function contribute to neurodevelopmental, psychiatric, and neurodegenerative diseases, with the aim of translating fundamental discoveries into novel therapeutic strategies that can restore synaptic function and improve outcomes for individuals affected by brain disorders.

Up to $15K

2027-04-30

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Thalamocortical Interactions Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NINDS - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Project Summary Building upon the success of past meetings, the 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Thalamocortical Interactions will bring together leading neuroscientists, from early career to established investigators, to discuss the latest breakthroughs in understanding the functions of the nervous system influenced by the thalamus. The scientific sessions will highlight cutting-edge discoveries on thalamus-brain interactions in normal and disease conditions. Session topics will include the role of the thalamus in brain plasticity and stroke recovery, movement, decision-making, development, and visual and tactile sensory processing, as well as topics new to this GRC, such as thalamic contributions to pain and itch processing, conscious states, addiction, and motivation. A major goal of this international conference is to foster interactions among scientists at all career stages, from graduate student and postdoctoral fellows to early career and senior investigators and spanning wide-ranging areas of expertise and interests to brainstorm new hypotheses related to thalamic function and to stimulate new collaborations. Leading researchers in the field will present their most current, unpublished work with extensive discussion planned for each session. Discussion will be further fostered during time set aside for more informal interactions. To promote the next generation of neuroscientists, short talks will be selected from abstracts submitted by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. In addition, junior faculty represent a third of confirmed invited speakers. Finally, this GRC will be preceded by a Gordon Research Seminar (GRS), organized by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, which will feature talks and posters by trainees. The GRS will serve as a forum for trainees to present their work and to broaden their peer network and will complement the GRC in bringing together scientists from around the world to discuss and identify new directions in thalamus-brain interactions. The 2026 conference promises to continue the highly regarded tradition and reputation established by the decade-long history of the Thalamocortical Interactions GRC series, bringing top neuroscientists from around the world to communicate innovative science, develop new hypotheses of thalamus function, establish new collaborations among participants, and nurture the next generation of young neuroscientists.

Up to $15K

2027-01-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Thiol-Based Redox Regulation and Signaling Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NCI - National Cancer Institute

PROJECT SUMMARY This proposal requests support for the 10th meeting of the biennial Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Thiol-Based Redox Regulation and Signaling to be held at the Rey Don Jaime Grand Hotel, Castelldefels, Spain on July 11-12 (GRS) and July 12-17 (GRC), 2026. Regulation of protein function through the post-translational modification of specific cysteine residues (thiol oxidation) plays an important role in cellular adaptation to local and global changes to endogenous and environmental oxidants. A key challenge for the redox-signaling field is to understand how thiol-based signaling mechanisms are integrated into cellular redox homeostasis and how these events facilitate communication between molecules, organelles, cells, and tissues to initiate and coordinate a specialized biological outcome. Significant emphasis for the 2026 meeting will be placed on an exploration of a wider range of cysteine thiol chemistry placed within a cellular context of other, often competing, oxidative or acyl modifications, some of which derive from environmental exposures, and contribute to cancer, aging and the progression of disease. In addition, we will discuss new insights into how cellular redox status impacts metabolic disease and new mathematical and analytical approaches to understand how redox gradients or “waves” impact the spatial and temporal aspects of signaling. A long-term objective is to use this new information to develop diagnostics and therapeutics for a wide range of redox-associated diseases that impact public health. This meeting provides a unique forum for extensive and immersive interaction among chemists, biologists, structural biologists and redox tool-builders, interested in a range of animal and cellular model systems, with clinical researchers and physicians focused on disease processes. While the thematic area of the conference is intentionally broad, its relevance to specialized NIH institutes is highly significant. Not only is redox toxicity proposed as a primary driver of chemically-induced pathology in humans, notably in aging and age-associated diseases, protection from these pathologies by “supersulfides” holds considerable promise. In keeping with the GRC tradition, the 2026 meeting will highlight presentations that emphasize unpublished work, creating a distinctive intellectual experience that enhances the excitement of the meeting. Investigators new to the meeting, junior investigators and graduate and post-graduate trainees will be welcomed. The associated GRS will provide a more intimate forum where graduate and postdoctoral trainees present their research to their peers, while receiving constructive comments from a few senior investigators who serve as mentors. We intend that the GRS/GRC meetings will attract and increase retention of junior scientists in the field of redox biology. We anticipate that the GRC will enhance the education of researchers at all career levels, generate new ideas and collaborations aimed at understanding thiol-based redox regulation and dysfunction, and enable future progress in the prevention, detection, and treatment of a wide-range of human diseases associated with perturbations in redox homeostasis.

Up to $8K

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2026 UNC Symposium on Hemostasis

NHLBI - National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

Summary Funding is requested for the registration fees and travel costs of invited speakers and discussion leaders as well as registration fee support for graduate students, postdocs, and early/mid- career scientists with an emphasis on first-time attendees at the 2026 12th Symposium on Hemostasis at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill. The theme of the 2026 Symposium is novel perspectives on classically understood pathways. The program is designed to bring together experts to present their most recent cutting- edge findings centered on defining novel mechanisms and innovative therapeutic advances in hemostasis and thrombosis. Recent studies suggest that coagulation proteins and platelets are tied to numerous pathological processes through mechanisms both dependent and independent of their traditional roles in hemostasis and thrombosis. Our invited speakers will present their latest and emerging work across a spectrum of basic science and clinical topics where coagulation proteins and platelets play a functional role, including cancer, infection and immunity, acute injury, and pregnancy. Priority will be placed on highlighting both the role these proteins play as disease modifiers, as well as the utility of employing or targeting these factors for diagnosis and therapy. A major goal for the 12th Symposium on Hemostasis is highlighting the translation of basic research findings into the clinical practice. Over 80% of our invited speakers will be presenting at this conference for the first time, and 30% represent early career faculty. In addition to invited speakers and discussion leaders, attendees will be selected by invitation and from submitted applications. They will be chosen to represent a broad, interdisciplinary spectrum of research topics. Additional efforts will be committed to recruiting first-time attendees as speakers in the ‘Hot Topics’ session and as poster presenters. An intended strength of this meeting will be the interaction and networking of young scientists in the field with the discussion leaders and the speakers. Collectively, the specific aims for the 12th Symposium on Hemostasis are to: (i) provide an environment that facilitates lively and open discussions between early career, mid-career, and established scientists that fuels the process of scientific discovery in the hemostasis and thrombosis community; (ii) provide a platform of support for the careers of junior scientists, including predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees, to ensure growth of the field; (iii) promote collaborative and interdisciplinary scientific research that opens channels of long-term interaction and networking; and (iv) provide a mechanism for clinicians to earn continuing medical education credits in the areas of hemostasis, thrombosis, and hematology. Through these specific aims the 12th Symposium on Hemostasis will reveal the next chapter of discovery and innovation for hemostasis and thrombosis research while helping to establish and build on the collaborative relationships necessary to push the field forward.

Up to $39K

2027-03-31

Free to search & build · $99 one-time to unlock the application pack · No subscription

2026 Visual System Development Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

NEI - National Eye Institute

PROJECT SUMMARY The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Visual System Development are a paired set of biennial meetings that bring together investigators studying development, disease, and evolution of the visual system. Over the years, these meetings have provided an exciting and unique forum in which to explore the similarities and differences underlying visual system development and function across a broad range of species. The goal of these meetings is to foster an appreciation of common principles that mediate the construction and function of the visual system in diverse organisms, and to share the latest exciting new ideas and findings on this topic. By including sessions that highlight emerging topics with translational impact, such as “Retinal Stem Cells, Repair, and Regeneration”, and “Developmental Disorders, Diseases, and Aging of the Visual System”, the meeting is also expanding its scope and stimulating crosstalk between developmental biologists and investigators focused on translational aspects of vision science. The GRS provides a unique platform for students and postdoctoral research fellows in the visual research field to share current, unpublished research amongst their peers and receive career mentorship in the vision science field. The format of the GRC and GRS meetings provides a highly interactive and stimulating venue for cross- fertilization of ideas and development of new collaborations. The Visual System Development GRC has established a reputation as the leading conference in its field, and it is the only meeting on the topic that brings together vision researchers working on the full range of experimental systems in the field, ranging from Drosophila to human. The current proposal requests funds to help defray conference fees for attendees at both meetings. The Visual System GRC and GRS will feature scientists at the cutting edge of the field, with careful attention taken to ensure involvement of researchers around the world, with participation from scientists at all stages of their careers.

Up to $57K