Molecular Basis of Host-Microbe and Host-Toxin Interactions in Disease Pathogenesis

The 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Microbial Toxins and Pathogenicity and its companion Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) will feature research on the fundamental mechanisms of host-microbe/toxin interactions and bacterial pathogenesis. This biennial international conference is regarded by the microbial pathogenesis community as our premier venue for intellectual exchange. To be held July 12-17, 2026, at the Waterville Valley Resort in New Hampshire, the conference is led by Chair Victor J. Torres, PhD and Vice Chair Sunny Shin, PhD.

The sessions will integrate cutting-edge research on bacterial toxins, virulence regulation, pathogenesis, pathogen evolution, physiology, the role of host microbiota, and innate immune responses. Poster sessions will promote extended discussions between colleagues within and across disciplines. To integrate and develop the next generation of scientists in our field, the GRC will be preceded by a GRS. Together the GRS and GRC promise to provide an exceptional forum to learn about recent discoveries in the field, and to consider and challenge the current paradigms, barriers, and opportunities to advance knowledge of molecular mechanisms of microbial infection.