The 16th Gordon Research Conference on Ion Channels will continue the strong tradition of providing a unique venue for the presentation of unpublished, cutting-edge biomedical research focused on the proteins responsible for ion transport. The 2012 scientific program will cover all aspects of ion channel biology, with topics including, but not limited to the structure, function, dynamics, mechanisms of regulation and modulation, protein biogenesis and trafficking and integrated aspects of ion channels in physiological function. Invited Speakers will be selected to ensure a diverse set of topics, channels and presenters. All participants are asked to bring a poster since approximately ten abstracts will be chosen for short talks. We strongly encourage graduate students and post doctoral associates to apply to both the 2012 Ion channels GRC and GRS. In addition, selected abstracts from these "early-career" investigators will be chosen for a "Data Blitz", in which the presenters will have two minutes and a slide to present their key findings that can be further discussed during the GRC poster sessions.

A main goal of the meeting is to stimulate detailed discussions among all attendees, giving rise to new ideas and directions for the field. Interactions are promoted by programming a generous amount of time for discussion sessions and by providing opportunities for informal gatherings at meals and in the afternoons and evenings. The 2012 meeting will be held at Mt. Holyoke College in idyllic Western Massachusetts. Mt. Holyoke College is within easy driving distance from Boston's Logan Airport, and a shuttle bus will provide transportation prior to and at the conclusion of the meeting. Travel awards are available for selected postdoctoral associates, graduate students, and minority participants.