The 2010 Gordon Conference on Neural Development in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island, will bring together an international group of scientists with the common research goal of exploring the molecular, cellular and functional basis of neural development. Invited speakers will present cutting-edge research in areas of brain patterning, neuronal stem cells, synaptic development, epigenetic regulation of neuronal gene expression, cell fate specification, neuronal migration and polarity, circuit development, and degeneration and regeneration. Each talk will be followed by discussion sessions in which students and postdocs are especially encouraged to participate. The meeting will highlight the diversity of experimental approaches and model systems (eg. mammals, zebrafish, C. elegans, Drosophila) that have led to major breakthroughs in the field. Recent technical achievements in molecular genetics and imaging relevant to research in neural development will also be discussed. Poster sessions and informal gatherings will provide additional opportunities for informal interactions among junior and senior researchers, and foster collaborations and further discussion. Some short talks by participants will be selected from the poster abstracts. Informal mentoring workshops for students, postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty will also be held on issues such as funding, obtaining independent positions, and publishing. Members of underrepresented minority groups are especially encouraged to attend.