2010 Neural Development Gordon Research Conference GORDON RESEARCH CONFERENCE ON NEURAL DEVELOPMENT August 15 - 20, 2010 Salve Regina College, Newport, Rhode Island

Gordon Research Conferences, East Greenwich RI

Investigators

Abstract

The 2010 Neural Development Gordon Research Conference (held biannually since 1981) will bring together scientists exploring multiple aspects of brain and nervous system development. The goal of the conference is to discuss recent research findings, establish collaborations and to educate and expose students to cutting edge research in neuronal development. The brain is responsible for integrating environmental stimuli with an organism's response and its behavior. Thus, elucidating how organisms learn to adapt to changing environments requires an understanding of brain development at a basic level. The principles of nervous system development are similar between animals as diverse as fruit flies and humans. Therefore, much information has been obtained from studies in simpler, more experimentally tractable organisms. At this meeting, researchers exploring brain development in a range of organisms will present their findings, allowing for the initiation of new research avenues. Gordon Conferences are unique for their intimate and informal formats, which allow researchers to interact extensively and to exchange and discuss ideas. In particular, these conferences encourage extended discussions following each oral presentation, which allows for the free exchange of opinions. This is the only conference which addresses the topic of neuronal development broadly in a small, interactive venue, and fulfills an important need in the community. Gordon conferences also provide an outstanding opportunity for students to meet and interact with luminaries in the field. Since the majority of participants present posters, this also allows students to present and discuss their work with attending researchers. Thus, the broader impacts of this conference are far-reaching, and attendance at Gordon Conferences such as this provides excellent educational opportunities, as well as opportunities to establish contacts and collaborations.