Synaptic Control of Plasticity, Stability, and Behavior

The 2026 Synaptic Transmission Gordon Research Conference will bring together an array of international scientific leaders and early-career scientists to discuss the latest developments and cutting-edge insights into the synaptic mechanisms that control the nervous system in health and disease. Synapses are the fundamental unit of information transfer in the nervous system underpinning the diversity of information encoding that enables complex adaptive behaviors across species. Dysregulation and degeneration of synapses are central to the pathophysiology of most, neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, elucidating the molecular and cellular principles governing synaptic biology is essential for understanding brain function and for the development of therapeutics to treat currently incurable brain disorders. This year’s program integrates pioneering research across a broad range of topics, including synapse development, nanoscale organization, signaling, Hebbian plasticity and homeostasis, the synaptic basis of behavior, and how synaptic dysfunction leads to brain disorders. A strong emphasis will be placed on cross-disciplinary dialogue and mechanistic insights, spanning molecular events to circuit-level phenomena throughout the sessions. The conference will promote dynamic interaction between established scientists and early-career scientists through a balanced program of talks, fostering mentorship and scientific exchange. Dedicated poster sessions inclusive of all career stages, communal meals, and unstructured afternoon time will further encourage informal discussions, collaborative engagement, networking, and community building across disciplines.