The Multiscale Mechanochemistry and Mechanobiology 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 two-day seminar will convene early-career researchers from the dynamic and interdisciplinary fields of mechanochemistry and mechanobiology, with the goal of fostering collaboration between these areas. Discussions will center on how mechanical forces can be delivered, measured, and harnessed to manipulate molecular frameworks and biological systems, advancing both understanding and application across scales. Emphasis will be placed on uncovering mechanisms of mechanical reactivity and sensing, and on translating this knowledge into innovative solutions with applications such as mechanodiagnostics, therapeutics, adaptive and degradable materials, tissue engineering, and soft robotics.
We aim to create a supportive environment for doctoral and post-doctoral researchers to develop their technical and professional skills. The goal of the GRS is to foster discussion and collaboration at the interface of chemistry, biology, and materials science. Structured to prioritize early career development, the meeting will feature contributions from graduate students and postdoctoral researchers alongside a keynote seminar from a distinguished leader in the field. The program will group scientific talks and discussions into thematic sections: emerging strategies for mechanical activation, the design of force-responsive architectures, and new understandings of mechanically dictated biological phenomena. A career panel will further provide mentorship opportunities across academic, industrial, government, and communication-based careers to help participants navigate and shape their own professional trajectory.
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 April 19, 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.
