Photoreceptors, Photobiological Responses and Optogenetic Applications Across Species

Light controls many aspects of life on earth including growth, development, behaviour and adaptation across species. From visual perception to entraining biological clocks and optimizing photosynthesis, light is key for sustaining ecosystems and maintaining physiological homeostasis. Understanding how organisms across kingdoms sense, transduce and respond to light enables advancements in fundamental science, medicine, agriculture, as well as innovative biotechnological applications using light-controlled technologies including optogenetics in medicine and physiology .

The 13th Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and associated Seminar (GRS) on Photosensory Receptors and Signal Transduction that will be held in Ventura, USA during February 7th -13th 2026 following up from a 20-year tradition of bringing together a multidisciplinary community of leading and early career researchers to share their latest discoveries in photosensory receptors across diverse biological systems from microbes to humans. Key topics will include photoreceptor structure, light activation and signal transduction mechanisms that drive light-regulated responses and behaviour. The wealth of opportunities for discussions on diverse families of natural photoreceptors using novel biophysical, biochemical and genetic approaches will shed light on their signalling properties. Additionally, the engineering of the diverse array photosensory systems for biotechnological, clinical applications and bioimaging will be highlighted.The associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) preceding the GRC will act as a platform for early-career researchers to share their discoveries and experience amongst peers and engage in networking and mentoring opportunities. Both the GRC and GRS programmes will also feature selected talks from early career scientists presenting breakthrough findings, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive scientific exchange.