The Antimicrobial Peptides GRS provides a unique forum for young doctoral and post-doctoral researchers to present their work, discuss new methods, cutting edge ideas, and pre-published data, as well as to build collaborative relationships with their peers. Experienced mentors and trainee moderators will facilitate active participation in scientific discussion to allow all attendees to be engaged participants rather than spectators.
The Antimicrobial Peptides Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) is a leading international forum for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other early-career scientists to present and discuss cutting-edge, unpublished research in an interactive and supportive environment. The seminar emphasizes active participation, open scientific discussion, and peer-to-peer exchange, with trainee-led presentations supported by guidance from experienced mentors. Antimicrobial peptides have broad functions in infection, inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer. As such, the 2027 GRS will focus on biological function and mechanisms of peptides in health and disease, with a focus on therapeutic applications.
Complementing the Antimicrobial Peptides GRC, the GRS is held over two days in a remote setting designed to encourage scientific exchange, networking, and the development of lasting professional relationships among participants at similar career stages. The program begins with a keynote session with cutting edge research from an accomplished leader in the AMP field. The program will then feature talks with novel unpublished research from learners in Master’s, PhD, and Post-doctoral programs attending the seminar. Discussions will be led by selected experienced moderators. Informal poster sessions will allow all attendees to discuss findings and techniques with colleagues and create longstanding connections. The mentorship component will be delivered by an experienced mentor and will focus on key challenges faced by current learners. Finally, communal meals and afternoon free time will foster community and connections amongst attendees. This time will also allow for further scientific and mentorship discussion with our esteemed invited speakers. The seminar provides an excellent opportunity to prepare for the GRC that follows.
Application Instructions
The seminar will feature approximately 10 talks and 2 poster sessions. All attendees are expected to actively participate in the GRS, either by giving an oral presentation or presenting a poster. Therefore, all applications must include an abstract.
The seminar chair will select speakers from abstracts submitted by October 25, 2026. Those applicants who are not chosen for talks and those who apply after the deadline to be considered for an oral presentation will be expected to present a poster. In order to participate, you must submit an application by the date indicated in the Application Information section above.
Program Format
Gordon Research Seminars are 2-day meetings which take place on the Saturday and Sunday just prior to the start of the associated GRC. The GRS opens with a 1-hour introductory session on Saturday afternoon, followed by a poster session, dinner and a 2-hour session in the evening. Sunday morning begins with breakfast and is followed by another 2-hour session, a second poster session, and lunch. A final 1-hour session takes place just after lunch, and the associated GRC begins later that evening.
