The 2008 "Photoacoustic and Photothermal Phenomena: Photoinduced Processes and Applications" GRC will present the most recent advances in the fields related with photo-induced processes. After photoexcitation of materials, a variety of phenomena has been observed and investigated. One of the major processes after photoexcitation is the nonradiative transition from the excited state. The photon energy is eventually transferred to the surroundings, mostly as thermal and acoustical energy. This energy can be used for fundamental investigations of light-materials interaction and also as an energy source to change states and materials. This process is of major importance in a variety of fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, medicine, industrial technology, material science, engineering science, and has been the subject of extensive studies during the last two decades.

The conference program will emphasize the interdisciplinary character of the fields including laser-materials interaction. Invited lectures and poster sessions are aimed to point out actual developments in the research areas of different disciplines. There will be nine technical sessions each focusing on a topic of current interest in the fields.

All participants are encouraged to submit a poster. The poster sessions, along with informal discussions during social hours, represent major parts of scientific exchange of ideas at the GRC. In particular, we welcome applications from graduate students and young postdoctoral scientists to attend and present their recent findings. For information about possible financial support please contact the chair persons.