Macromolecular Materials 2011

The Macromolecular Materials Gordon Research Conference (formerly “Polymers West”) has a long-standing tradition as a GRC that features a breadth of the most exciting and state-of-the-art aspects of macromolecules. The 2011 meeting will extend this tradition with an interdisciplinary program connecting synthetic, physical, chemical and biological aspects of macromolecules in thematic programming. Meeting topics include an exploration of the complex interactions inherent to polymer materials as nanocomposites (from theoretical to experimental), new synthetic techniques that enable the exploration of new applications, electronically active polymers for integration into novel emissive and energy conversion devices, macromolecules that define the polymer/biology interface, and the rich and unusual behavior of macromolecules when present as thin films. It is essential that this GRC provides participants and attendees with a forum from which new collaborations and new ideas emerge, and as such the meeting format ensures that speakers deliver in-depth talks that include emerging and unpublished data. As a trademark of a successful GRC, ample discussion time will be provided following each talk, and the afternoons of each meeting day will be unscheduled, leaving time for excursions and informal discussions among participants.