2026 Genetic Biocontrol Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

About This Grant

PROJECT SUMMARY The 2026 Genetic Biocontrol Gordon Research Conference (GBGRC) will explore cutting edge research in the field of genetic biocontrol, an approach for controlling or eliminating specific organisms that threaten public health and food security. Robust transgenic and genome editing technologies are fueling rapid research and development of genetic platforms and systems for combating pathogen and parasite-transmitting mosquitoes, other insect vectors of human disease-causing pathogens, and insects that reduce food security. The safe implementation of genetic biocontrol approaches requires a comprehensive understanding of interdisciplinary science involving molecular biology, ecology, genomics, bioinformatics, modeling, regulatory science, and scientific communication for effective stakeholder engagement. A key aim of this conference is to allow scientists working in these various disciplines, who do frequently come in contact with each other, to converge under the common blanket of genetic biocontrol. The conference, which will include a new discussion session on developing elevator talks followed by a lightening round during the main conference program in which the talks can be delivered to all attendees, will promote the cross-fertilization of ideas between fields and foster collaborations that will help build our understanding of new innovative technologies that can be used to improve human health and well-being. Another major aim of the meeting is to unite scientists from all career stages and, in particular, early career scientists, as well as trainees who will also have the opportunity to present their work in the Genetic Biocontrol Gordon Research Seminar (GBGRS), which is run by and for trainees and held in conjunction with the main meeting. The friendly and interactive culture of the GBGRC, which embraces participation from scientists at all career stages, will help foster early career researchers. Implementation of novel genetic/biological control strategies requires interdisciplinary collaborations. Thus community and collaboration for network building is another key aim of this conference. To achieve this goal, ample time for discussion occurs throughout the program, a feature of GRC meetings. New interactions facilitated by the wide range of scientific backgrounds represented will cultivate interdisciplinary collaborations. The GBGRC and GBGRS will thus promote exchange of the latest ideas and techniques in the broad field of genetic engineering and genetic biocontrol to encourage cross-field collaborations while enhancing and promoting the careers of the next generation of scientists in this dynamic and exciting field. Support from NIAID for this conference will help us achieve these goals and advance the understanding and treatment of many of the world’s widespread infectious diseases.