The long-term goal of the Biointerface Science GRC is to enhance our understanding of interactions between biomolecules and surfaces, and the behavior of complex macromolecular systems at materials interfaces, driven by the important role these interactions play in the fields of biology, biotechnology, diagnostics, and medicine. One aim of the conference is to expose biological scientists and medical researchers to emerging aspects of materials and surface science, including precision methods for positioning, manipulating, and interrogating biomolecules at length scales from the single molecule upwards in two-and three dimensions. At the same time, an equally important objective is to accelerate the rate at which new developments in molecular/cellular biology and biomolecular design, are brought into the domain of physical scientists and engineers. Together, this intellectual interplay will lead new ways in which molecules are designed, studied, and exploited for the vast number of settings in which "biomolecules meet surfaces", including better understanding of interfacial phenomena in biological systems, and for inspiring new treatments and diagnostic strategies for human diseases.

The 2010 conference will emphasize molecular-level descriptions of biointerfacial phenomena from both experimental and theoretical perspectives. Nine topical sessions are tentatively planned on the following aspects of biointerfaces: Theory, Computation and Modeling of Biointerfaces; Supported Membranes and Membrane Proteins; Interactions of Biomolecules with Crystal/Mineral Surfaces; Single Molecule Biophysics; Mechanochemistry and Biological Adhesion; Microbiology/Biofilms; Biolubrication; Interfaces of Proteins and Cells with Materials; Electrified Biointerfaces. In addition to the oral sessions, poster sessions as well as significant informal interactions will contribute to the goals of the conference.