The Thalamocortical Interactions 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.
The 2026 GRS will explore how thalamocortical circuits sense, process, and influence perception, behavior, and higher brain functions. Discussions will highlight the thalamus’s role in integrating sensory and cognitive signals, regulating attention and learning, and shaping adaptive responses. Emphasis will be placed on both computational models and experimental approaches that provide insight into the dynamic interactions within these circuits and how they lead to behavior. In addition to exploring fundamental mechanisms, this seminar will examine how disruptions in thalamic networks contribute to neurological and psychiatric conditions.
This meeting will provide a dedicated space for early career researchers to share and discuss their work, gain skills and fluency in navigating scientific spaces, and to build a global network of emerging leaders in their field.
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 November 16, 2025. 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.
