This conference will cover many topics relating to the role of cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion in regulating cell behavior during development and in mature organisms. A major focus on the meeting will be on the cellular pathways and processes involved in transducing signals from adhesion receptors. Many different processes will be discussed including stem cell and tissue differentiation, cell migration, cell polarity and responses to mechanical stress, and the speakers will describe details of the molecular interactions involved in these processes as well as dynamic aspects of their behavior in cells. The keynote speaker will be Alan Hall who has been a leader in elucidating the mechanisms whereby membrane receptors regulate the cytoskeleton and cell polarity.