Conference Description
The Neural Crest and Cranial Placodes GRC is a premier, international scientific conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science through the presentation of cutting-edge and unpublished research, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages. The conference program includes an array of speakers and discussion leaders from institutions and organizations worldwide, concentrating on the latest developments in the field. The conference is five days long and held in a remote location to increase the sense of camaraderie and create scientific communities, with lasting collaborations and friendships. In addition to premier talks, the conference has designated time for poster sessions from individuals of all career stages, and afternoon free time and communal meals allow for informal networking opportunities with leaders in the field.
Neural crest cells and cranial placodes share evolutionary and embryological origins and are of fundamental importance to vertebrate development, evolution, disease, and regeneration. Together, they form the cranial sensory ganglia, but individually they each give rise to an incredibly diverse array of cell types and tissues. Defects in neural crest cell and cranial placode development underlie a broad range of birth defects and disorders including cancer, sensory deficits, and abnormal physiological function in juveniles and adults. This conference brings together leading researchers working on all aspects of neural crest cell and cranial placode biology. The conference also offers the unique opportunity to form new collaborations, mentor junior scientists, and build professional networks in a supportive environment. The goals of the conference are to accelerate the exchange of information across different model systems, promote technological innovations, advance our knowledge of neural crest cells and cranial placodes at genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic levels, and further our understanding of the pathogenesis of congenital disorders.
The conference chair is currently developing their preliminary program, which will include 9 sessions and the names of the invited speakers and discussion leaders for each of these sessions. The preliminary program will be available by June 24, 2026. Please check back for updates.
