The Visual System Development 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.
This immersive, two-day meeting is specifically designed to create a personal atmosphere in which the future leaders of vision research can connect and communicate freely. Attendance at the Visual System Development GRS is a highly recommended prelude to the GRC.
Featured in the 2026 Visual System Development GRS will be a keynote from prominent visual processing and circuit function neuroscientist Dr. Raunak Sinha (University of Wisconsin-Madison). The in-person meeting will highlight the latest advancements in visual system development, pathology, and maintenance across various experimental models.
The GRS includes two sessions featuring a total of eight speakers (to be selected from submitted abstracts), two 90-minute poster sessions, and a mentorship component on “Navigating Career Opportunities”. These dedicated formal and informal discussion sessions are designed to foster collaborations, build relationships in the field, and provide opportunities to gather advice at pivotal points in the careers of young investigators.
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 May 3, 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.
