Conference Description
The Lignin 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 second Lignin Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) will offer an outstanding opportunity for early-career researchers—both doctoral and post-doctoral—to share their latest work and engage in meaningful discussions across all aspects of lignin science, including plant biology, microbiology, protein engineering, chemistry, and materials science. This seminar will not only showcase cutting-edge ideas and pre-publication data but also promote peer-to-peer interactions aimed at building a vibrant network among young scientists in lignin science. A keynote lecture by a globally recognized expert in the field will open the seminar. This will be followed by two thematic sessions, one focused on biological topics and the other on chemical aspects, each chaired by a young researcher to encourage leadership and active involvement from the next generation. A poster session will allow all attendees to present their research in an open, interactive environment, fostering stimulating discussions and new collaborations. The seminar will conclude with a mentoring session where experienced scientists will share their career journeys and offer practical advice to guide young researchers in their scientific careers.
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 February 8, 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.
