The Mammary Gland Biology Gordon Research Conference will bring together a diverse range of researchers interested in the molecular, cellular and physiological basis for normal mammary gland development and elucidating perturbations that give rise to breast cancer.

The 2016 conference will focus on outstanding questions and recent discoveries related to stem cell biology and the mammary niche, pubertal development, pregnancy, lactation and mammary gland involution. The role of hormones in breast cancer risk, treatment and prevention will be addressed, as well as mammary models addressing tumor heterogeneity, domancy and metastasis. The role of tumor suppressors (such as BRCA1) and regulatory signals from the stroma/immune cells will also be covered. Experts in these fields will be invited to share their most recent findings and discuss emerging challenges. Short talks highlighting outstanding work by young investigators and trainees will be selected from the submitted abstracts. An informal workshop on the physiology of normal mammary gland development and lactation (led by Prof. Russ Hovey, UC Davis) will also be held during free time. 

The meeting, held in an outstanding location, has a longstanding tradition of excellent interactions across all levels of seniority, from world-renowned investigators to the newest student. It provides unique opportunities for engagement between experts and junior scientists to learn about breaking concepts and specialized techniques in these research areas. The conference is renowned for its collegial and friendly tone, lively poster sessions and opportunities for extended discussions during free time.

This conference is also designed to promote the careers of young scientists, and includes "Lunch with the Expert" that provide mentoring and perspective. Opportunities to attend will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis via sign-up at the time of GRC registration. Each trainee is free to attend as many of the lunches as they would like.

This GRC will be preceded by the next in a series of highly successful Mammary Gland Gordon Research Seminars; graduate students and junior post-docs are encouraged to apply for both meetings.