Project Summary
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a complex biopolymer network that defines the structure and mechanics of
solid tissue and can profoundly regulate cell function in development, physiology, and disease. As a result, there
has been an enormous effort to create biomaterials and other engineered systems that mimic the ECM with the
goal of modeling and controlling cell-ECM crosstalk for discovery and therapeutics. To promote continued
discovery and translation in this exciting field while nurturing the next generation of talent, we seek support for
the 2024 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Signal Transduction
by Engineered Extracellular Matrices (STEEM). The STEEM GRC/GRS is widely viewed as the premier venue
for sharing and discussing cutting-edge developments in ECM science and engineering. Over the past quarter-
century, STEEM has played a leadership role in bringing together biologists, engineers, materials scientists, and
other disciplinary experts into a common forum and has played a key role in incubating interdisciplinary topics
such as mechanobiology, biofabrication, and organoid technology. In the 2024 meeting, we will build on these
advances and explore several questions that will define the next decade of work in the field under the theme
Engineered microenvironments for next-generation biology, disease modeling, and therapeutics. The
GRC aims to: (1) Create a forum in which information and ideas are freely exchanged between researchers of
diverse and complementary backgrounds to enhance the potential of regenerative medicine and cell-based
therapies to improve human health; (2) Support a diverse group of young and early career investigators by
exposing them to new and exciting ideas and opportunities in an environment that encourages collegial
interactions; and (3) Bring together scientists across all experience levels, from trainees to senior scientists, and
representing diverse fields of expertise and professional settings from academic labs to national labs to small
and large biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, to foster meaningful, long-lasting collaborations. The
GRS aims to: (1) Provide young and early career investigators, especially graduate students and postdoctoral
trainees, the opportunity to present their research in a forum organized by and for them; (2) Encourage lasting
collegial interactions and initiation of collaborations between young investigators of diverse fields; and (3) Provide
a unique opportunity for young scientists in the field to receive career guidance from selected faculty mentors
invited to the GRS.
