Protein folding, which comprises one of the outstanding problems in biology today, engages a highly multi- and interdisciplinary group of scientists working at the forefront of research in biological and biophysical methodologies and theory. Understanding the dynamical and energetic features of folding of single and multi-domain proteins in solution, the crowded cellular environment, at the ribosome during protein synthesis, and at membranes are keys to elucidating issues of protein function, design and the origin of diseases linked to protein misfolding. Emerging developments in fast spectroscopy, single molecule techniques, simulation approaches and molecular and cellular biology, together with established experiments utilizing NMR and other visible spectroscopy, are fueling investigations with increasingly more quantitative detail. Few other fields have seen such a successful blend of physical and biological sciences that are leading to advances in our fundamental quantitative understanding of the folding process. The Gordon Research Conference in Protein Folding Dynamics is holding its fourth biannual meeting and was established specifically to bring experiment and theory together to explore advances in the field. The current meeting is designed to provide a continuing forum to discuss existing and developing theoretical frameworks for folding as well as fundamental problems from polypeptide energetics and dynamics in a range of folding environments. The GRC in Protein Folding Dynamics will continue its strong tradition in supporting and encouraging the participation of younger scientists.