Abstract

Polymer physics is a broad and interdisciplinary field with impact across diverse societal needs and industrial sectors, including energy, infrastructure, transportation, water, and health. The 2018 Gordon Research Conference on Polymer Physics will focus on new experimental, simulation, and theoretical developments over a range of traditional and emerging topics, including polymer phase behavior, polymer nanocomposites, biopolymers, rheology, ion and electron-conducting polymers, and mechanochemistry in polymers. The conference will feature nineteen full-length lectures by senior researchers, whose talks will include a ten-minute introduction designed for a general polymer audience, as well as a session featuring shorter talks by six early career investigators. Poster sessions and informal activities will provide ample opportunity to share and discuss the latest advances in polymer physics with the speakers, poster presenters, and other conference attendees. Graduate students and postdoctoral researchers are encouraged to apply not only to the GRC, but also to the associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Polymer Physics, which will take place on the weekend immediately prior to the GRC. GRS attendees will share current research with their peers through oral and poster presentations; form new connections that may develop into future research collaborations; and discover the scope of research topics, methodologies, and career opportunities in the realm of polymer physics. Poster Sessions: All Polymer Physics GRC attendees are encouraged to participate in the late afternoon and evening poster sessions. A poster title and abstract can be submitted when applying for the conference. Mount Holyoke College: The site of the Polymer Physics GRC since 2010, its spacious, wooded campus includes a comfortable auditorium, good space for the poster session, new dormitories with air-conditioning, quiet walking trails, botanical gardens, a gym with pool, and tennis courts. Opportunities for cycling, canoeing, and hiking can be found nearby.