The Synaptic Transmission GRS provides a unique forum for young doctoral and post-doctoral researchers to present their work, discuss new methods, cutting edge ideas, and pre-published data, as well as to build collaborative relationships with their peers. Experienced mentors and trainee moderators will facilitate active participation in scientific discussion to allow all attendees to be engaged participants rather than spectators.
Synapses are not only key mediators of neuronal communication but also dynamic structures that adapt in response to experience, injury, and disease. The 2026 Synaptic Transmission GRS will explore synaptic plasticity in both healthy and pathological contexts, aiming to illuminate how changes at the synapse contribute to neural circuit remodeling, functional recovery, and disease progression. Talks will highlight mechanisms of synaptic regulation across molecular, structural, and functional levels, with a particular emphasis on work connecting basic synaptic processes to neurological disorders, injury models, and emerging therapeutic strategies. The program will also feature advances in imaging, molecular tools, and computational approaches that allow for precise probing of synaptic function and dysfunction.
In addition to scientific sessions, the GRS will include a career development panel featuring speakers from diverse professional backgrounds. This panel is designed to support trainees in navigating their career paths, both within and beyond academia, and to foster mentorship relationships that last beyond the conference.
Application Instructions
The seminar will feature approximately 10 talks and 2 poster sessions. All attendees are expected to actively participate in the GRS, either by giving an oral presentation or presenting a poster. Therefore, all applications must include an abstract.
The seminar chair will select speakers from abstracts submitted by April 5, 2026. Those applicants who are not chosen for talks and those who apply after the deadline to be considered for an oral presentation will be expected to present a poster. In order to participate, you must submit an application by the date indicated in the Application Information section above.
Program Format
Gordon Research Seminars are 2-day meetings which take place on the Saturday and Sunday just prior to the start of the associated GRC. The GRS opens with a 1-hour introductory session on Saturday afternoon, followed by a poster session, dinner and a 2-hour session in the evening. Sunday morning begins with breakfast and is followed by another 2-hour session, a second poster session, and lunch. A final 1-hour session takes place just after lunch, and the associated GRC begins later that evening.
