The Membrane Transport Proteins 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.
This seminar explores the many roles of membrane transport proteins—including channels, carriers, and pumps—across all domains of life. From bacteria and plants to animals and humans, transporters are essential for moving ions, nutrients, metabolites, and signalling molecules across membranes. These proteins are key players in a wide range of biological processes, from health and disease to environmental adaptation. This meeting aims to deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of transporter and to introduce novel cutting-edge techniques used to study membrane transporters. The GRS embraces diverse perspectives and encourages interdisciplinary approaches such as structural biology, biophysics, pharmacology, computational modelling, and synthetic biology. By highlighting transport across different organisms and systems, the seminar aims to connect fields and build collaborations among the next generation of membrane transporter researchers. In addition to scientific exchange, the GRS includes intentional mentorship and structured career development opportunities. Through guided discussions and interactions with senior scientists, the seminar will support trainees in navigating career challenges, building professional networks, and exploring different career paths. Two keynote speakers will share insights into their innovative research on membrane transport proteins and offer perspectives on their career journeys.
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 March 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.
