Neural, Behavioral and Evolutionary Strategies for Animal Survival

The 2017 Gordon Research Conference on Neuroethology will focus on "Neural, Behavioral and Evolutionary Strategies for Animal Survival". The core focus of Neuroethology is the understanding of the neuronal bases of natural animal behaviors. In this conference we will highlight some of the amazing strategies animals use for survival. The behavioral, neural and molecular underpinnings of survival strategies will be highlighted in sessions on topics that including the use of toxins in predation and self-preservation, the ability of animals to adapt to a constantly changing environment, group dynamics and social interactions, and the use of multisensory inputs to sample the environment. The goal is to highlight multidisciplinary approaches in each of these topics to stimulate lively discussions that will bring new ideas and approaches to the field. Invited speakers will include both established and early-stage investigators. In addition to formal talks and discussion sessions, all participants are encouraged to present their research in the form of poster presentations. This conference will also include a new initiative of the Gordon Research Board of Trustees called "Power Hour" that is an informal session open to all attendees in which the challenges facing women in science will be discussed. The conference will be preceded by a compelling Neuroethology Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) which will set the stage for the GRC, but cover a unique set of topics. The GRS is an opportunity for graduate students and post-docs to present their research to peers and future colleagues, and to interact with a senior faculty mentor for career and life advice.