The Gordon Conference on the Science of Adhesion provides a unique and productive venue for the discussion of cutting edge research pertaining to the broad fields of adhesion and interface science, particularly with regard to soft matter. Since its inception in 1954, the conference has offered a unique opportunity for international scientists and technologists alike to exchange ideas on such diverse topics as molecular design and synthesis of adhesives, adhesion mechanics, theory, interfacial modification, spreading and wetting, as well as how such topics underpin the fundamentals of adhesion science and practice. The 2009 Conference continues these trends with presentations on the synthesis of new adhesives by click chemistry, anaerobic cure chemistry, the mechanics of soft active materials and nanoenhanced adhesives, polymer friction, molecular mechanisms of adhesion, wetting and superhydrophobicity. In addition, the conference has an important evolving emphasis on the fundamental nature of biological and bio-inspired adhesion processes (e.g., geckos and tree frogs) with presentations focusing on the influence of surface topography and polymer brushes on bioadhesion and biofouling, bioadhesive drug delivery, molecular mechanisms of protein adhesion, and forces involved with cell adhesion both within and outside of the cell. A special panel discussion will be organized to discuss future challenges in bioadhesion and specifically the roles that chemists, physicists, biologists and engineers can play in furthering the fundamental understanding of naturally occurring adhesion phenomenon. The conference promotes discourse in a collegial environment designed to bring together a diverse group of researchers at the forefront of the field. Academic and industrial attendees, junior scientists and graduate students are encouraged to present their own work in a poster format. Programmed discussion sessions and reasonable attendance limits encourage the participation of all attendees in discussions and ensure that they have ample opportunity to become acquainted with other participants both on personal and professional levels. Social events and informal gatherings are designed to foster brainstorming across different disciplines as well as to initiate interdisciplinary collaborations.