The overarching theme of the 2012 Gordon Conference on Bacterial Cell Surfaces is to advance our understanding of the structure, biogenesis, function and regulation of the bacterial envelope and the physiological processes in which it takes part. Specific sessions will address, among other topics: membrane biogenesis, secretion and transport, cell wall biochemistry, cell division, bacterial morphogenesis, cell biology and compartmentation, surface polymers and antigens, extracellular communication, and antibiotic resistance, as well as newly arising special topics. This conference has a history of bringing together themes in genetics, biochemistry, microscopy and structural biology, and has been particularly instrumental in nurturing the development of what has become a highly important and renewed emphasis on bacterial cellular biology. Unexpected and ground-breaking discoveries have been announced at these meetings, and the seeds of many others have been planted in the discussions and collaborations generated here. The conference prides itself on recruiting and introducing a strong cadre of junior scientists and students to the pursuit of these critical subjects in bacterial surface physiology, many of which are fundamental to aspects of pathogenesis and resistance. The meeting format of formal and informal gatherings and communal meals encourages extensive interactions between the conferees and allows established investigators, junior scientists and students to mingle easily, make contacts and exchange ideas. Times will be reserved for late-breaking results, all participants may present their work in poster format, and some poster presenters will be selected for short talks. Overall, the 2012 Conference will continue to cover topics of sharp interest to the biomedical community, encompassing both basic and medical science.