Molecules, Circuits, and Music: Communication Across the Auditory System

The 2024 Auditory System Gordon Research Conference (GRC) program is built around the theme of communication. Molecules, cells, and circuits communicate at multiple levels to drive auditory development, homeostasis, and (unfortunately) auditory dysfunction. Individuals and communities rely on their auditory systems to communicate core needs, for social interactions, and to enhance their experience of the world around them.

The conference will integrate research across all levels of the auditory system. Sessions will traverse the auditory system from its fundamental peripheral mechanisms to the central pathways, multi-sensory integration, and behavioral output. The program will include normal auditory function, the etiology of auditory dysfunction due to disease or trauma, and innovative approaches to preventing hearing loss and to recovering function after loss. Investigators will highlight different model systems and technologies so that all attendees will find topics of interest within each session. This approach to organizing the meeting is designed to ensure that each session offers something for everyone - regardless of their specific research interests - and to facilitate exciting interdisciplinary interactions and discussions. The clinical importance of auditory research will be highlighted throughout.

The Auditory System GRC is preceded by a smaller, two day (July 13-14) Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) designed for students and postdocs engaged in auditory research. GRS attendees are strongly encouraged to attend the subsequent GRC. Talks will be selected from submitted abstracts and anchored by a keynote address by an invited mentor participant. There is ample time for discussion following each talk, or while hiking in the afternoon, or during poster-and-refreshment sessions each evening.