Emergent Properties at High Material Densities

High pressure provides the largest range of any tunable thermodynamic variable to change and study material properties. As such, it has long been a favorite test case for the development of modern condensed-matter theories. Applications include a wide range of disciplines including physics, biology, chemistry, and earth and planetary sciences, as well as industrial and technological applications in food processing and material synthesis. Most of the observable universe is associated with bodies at high pressure. Many compelling theories of the origin of complex organic chemistry and life invoke high-pressure conditions. Modern high-pressure techniques allow access to densities where external constraining forces are comparable to internal atomic forces, generating new physical phenomena in materials and chemical science. This conference aims to assemble a wide range of scientists, both experimental and theoretical, from across the associated disciplines to share new research discoveries, discuss collaborations, and plan the future.

The Research at High Pressure Conference is one of the oldest Gordon Research Conferences and has existed continuously for over 60 years. The traditional collegial atmosphere of this conference facilitates and encourages discussion, interaction, and collaboration among all participants and the wide range of research areas represented. The GRC and associated GRS will provide opportunities for early career scientists and students to present their work in oral, poster and informal formats.

J.C. Jamieson and A. Van Valkenburg Awards: Traditionally, the attendees of this conference have honored an early-career scientist (Alvin Van Valkenburg Award) and an outstanding graduate student (J.C. Jamieson Award) working in the area of high pressure research. Please send a supporting letter and CV to the Chair for nominations. The recipients of these awards will be given travel support and invited talks to present their work.