Abstract

The 2018 GRC meeting builds upon a long and rich tradition which started over 50 years ago – to bring together a group of scientists with diverse interests and strengths but with a common core interest in understanding the role of tetrapyrroles (hemes, B12, bilins, chlorophyll, and related cofactors). Each session will be led by leaders in their respective fields with speakers representing an international cadre of individuals, ranging from senior investigators to junior scientists. Cutting-edge talks will be presented on tetrapyrrole chemistry and metabolism in normal and pathological states across phyla, extending from single celled organisms to photosynthetic systems to humans. The meeting will provide unique opportunities for established scientists and early stage investigators to present their work and exchange ideas with leaders in the field, learn where the field is heading, and establish new cross-disciplinary collaborations. We expect the 2018 meeting to set the stage for the next 50 years! Speakers will be present throughout the week providing attendees ample opportunities for individual and group discussions. Based upon submitted abstracts, short talks will be identified for each session from junior scientists, including postdocs and students. The collegial atmosphere of this conference, with programmed discussions, poster sessions and opportunities for informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings, provides an excellent venue to renew/enhance/develop collaborative science.