A plethora of new phenomena and new insights regarding room temperature and high temperature mechanical behavior of ceramics has surfaced in the last few years. This 2012 Gordon Research Conference on Solid State Studies in Ceramics: New Insights and New Paradigms for Fracture and Deformation will focus on exploring new theories and computational and experimental approaches that will push the boundaries of our understanding of the fundamental mechanical behavior of ceramic material systems, the future of hybrid and microstructural design, and the behavior of ceramics under unique or extreme environments.

The unique format of the Gordon Research Conference allows for the identification of emerging research areas and the presentation of work in progress that will not be quoted or cited (per GRC policy). Extensive discussion and poster sessions, as well as opportunities for informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings, facilitate brainstorming and the development of new collaborations. This venue provides an excellent opportunity for junior scientists and graduate students to exchange ideas with leaders in the field.

All oral talks are invited but conference participants have the opportunity to present a poster on their own current research in progress on ceramics using experiments, computational approaches, theory and/or modeling. Posters are welcome that further our understanding of:

• room temperature and high temperature deformation,
• deformation under unique or extreme environments,
• mechanical stability of energy ceramics,
• novel microstructures,
• bioinspired ceramics, and
• synthesis routes for enhanced mechanical behavior of ceramics.

The Chair and Vice-Chair will select four posters to be highlighted each day from each poster session that reflect best the GRC philosophy of emerging and cutting edge research.