One-carbon (C1) compounds play a central role in microbial metabolism. C1 compounds include methane, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and methanol as well as coenzyme-bound one-carbon compounds. They are of broad global importance because several of these (e.g., methane) are important energy sources, some (e.g., carbon dioxide and methane) are potent greenhouse gases, and others (e.g., dichloromethane) are xenobiotics. C1 compounds are central in pathways of energy metabolism and carbon fixation by microorganisms and many are of industrial interest. The 2012 Gordon Conference will present and discuss cutting-edge research in the field of microbial metabolism of C1 compounds. The conference will feature the roles and application of C1 metabolism in natural and synthetic systems at scales from molecules to ecosystems. The conference will stress molecular aspects of the unique metabolism exhibited by autotrophic bacteria, methanogens, methylotrophs, aerobic and anaerobic methanotrophs, and acetogens. Complementary perspectives will be provided by leading scientists in biochemistry, general microbiology, molecular biology, ecology, systems- and synthetic biology.

The Conference will bring together investigators who are at the forefront of their field, and will provide opportunities for junior scientists and graduate students to present their work in poster format and exchange ideas with leaders in the field. In addition, some poster presenters will be selected to give short talks in the different sessions. The collegial atmosphere of this Conference, with extensive discussion sessions as well as opportunities for informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings, provides an ideal setting for scientists from different disciplines to exchange ideas, brainstorm and discuss cross-disciplinary collaborations.