[phenixbb] Diffraction Methods in Structural Biology - Gordon Research Conference - July 24-29, 2022

[James Holton]

Many of you may recall approximately 1000 years ago we were looking 
forward to getting together for another great Diffraction Methods GRC. 
Now, after a 4-year break, the meeting is on!
https://www.grc.org/diffraction-methods-in-structural-biology-conference/2022/ 


It will be in-person at Bates College in Lewiston, ME, USA, on July 
24-29 of 2022. Strange how it is strange to be considering meeting in 
person, but recent GRCs have proven they can be conducted safely. We've 
learned a lot about viruses in recent years, both in our lives and in 
our labs. Artificial Intelligence has come a long way, and the role of 
biological structure, and indeed science in general, is impacting the 
everyday lives of human beings more than ever before.

It is time we got together to talk about all this. Yes, we've gotten a 
lot of work done remotely, but some things just have to wait until you 
are face-to-face. Preferably over a Maine lobster dinner. GRCs are not 
about listening to talks, they are about the discussion that comes 
after. Newcomers and Veterans sharing and debating ideas until far too 
late at night. It is my sincere hope that fighting this virus, and 
looking toward a brighter future, will inspire even more visionary and 
collaborative ideas for the role structure will play in that future. I 
can't imagine a better theme of discussion for this next meeting.

Some may also recall that in 2020 we were accepting tax-deductible 
donations to help attendees from underrepresented groups overcome the 
financial barriers to GRC attendance. Those funds are still available, 
and donations are also still possible. I ask that applicants who feel 
they may qualify please self-identify to me, off-list, in an email. It 
is my goal to bring as many diverse backgrounds and points of view as 
possible into this meeting, because that is what makes for the most 
productive discussions.

-James Holton
MAD Scientist

-James Holton
MAD Scientist and Chair of the 2020/2022 Diffraction Methods GRC