The Organic Geochemistry 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.
Reflecting its theme, Beyond Rocks and Oil, the GRS highlights how organic geochemistry is expanding beyond its petroleum origins to tackle some of society’s most pressing scientific questions. The scientific results and ideas highlighted at the GRS will exemplify both foundational research and innovative intersections with disciplines such as biogeochemistry, oceanography, paleoclimatology, energy resources, forensics, analytical chemistry, and evolutionary biology. Research will be shared via oral and poster presentations, and we welcome the submission of abstracts that highlight both complete and in-progress thought-provoking, original research.
The oral sessions will showcase works that apply organic geochemical techniques and tools to questions that span from understanding the origin and fate of natural and anthropogenic organic matter on Earth, to exploring planetary habitability on Earth and beyond. This year, the GRS will also feature a session dedicated to research which uses traditional and novel geochemical techniques for unique forensic applications. The seminar will conclude with a session dedicated to career exploration and development for early-career organic geochemists in both academic and non-academic career paths.
The 2026 Organic Geochemistry GRS provides a forum to connect early-career researchers with their peers in a respectful and welcoming setting, with the aim to help grow and shape the future of the organic geochemistry community for many generations to come.
Due to limited accommodations at this venue, guest housing is very limited. To request family/guest housing please reach out to your Conference Operations Associate.
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 26, 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.
