The 2020 STIM GRC will explore recent advances in the study of fundamental mechanisms, pathways and systems in microbial signal transduction. Focus will be placed on bacterial receptors and cognate intracellular networks that involve phosphorelays, signaling by diverse nucleotides, reactive metabolites and redox sensing. Topics will include gene regulation by environmental cues, the assembly and regulation of motility apparatuses, chemotaxis, energy monitoring, community behavior, biofilm formation, regulation of pathogenicity, and interactions with the host. In addition, the role of signaling systems in antimicrobial resistance, and antimicrobial targeting of signaling proteins will be explored. These areas will be addressed through cutting-edge applications of molecular genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and chemical biology as well as structural, imaging and biophysical approaches. Invited speakers will include both established and early-stage investigators. In addition, some poster presenters will be selected for short late-breaking topic talks. We will also host a Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) for postdocs and graduate students to precede the GRC meeting. Participants will enjoy the Conference's open and collegial atmosphere that provides valuable opportunities to engage in scientific discussion and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.