MEETinLEEDS unites leading researchers in structural molecular biology for an international conference

MEETinLEEDS is celebrating another successful event, following the recent Astbury Conversation, which took place at the University of Leeds 16th – 17th April 2018. The conference, which welcomed over 500 attendees, is designed to give an insight into life in molecular detail and welcomes any attendee, from a researcher keen to understand the latest developments to those simply interested in learning more about the world of macromolecules.

MEETinLEEDS, the conference facilities of the University of Leeds, hosted the two day event, which takes place every two years. The second biennial Astbury Conversation brought together leading researchers from across the globe to discuss the most recent progress in the field of structural molecular biology in its broadest sense. The format involved an academic Symposium on the topic ‘Allostery in Biology’, with prestigious speakers from across the globe, presentations and poster sessions. Delegates also enjoyed a Plenary Public Lecture by Nobel Laureate Professor Brian Kobilka of Stanford University and a Public Engagement Event themed around “Understanding More about the Secret Life of Molecules”, followed by a wine reception.

The first Astbury Conversation was held in Leeds 11th-12th April 2016 with Nobel Laureate Prof Michael Levitt, FRS as the Plenary lecturer and the third event is already planned for 23rd-24th March 2020. It is inspired by the pioneering work at Leeds of the Braggs (Nobel prize 1913), and in the 1930s to 60s of Professor Bill Astbury, FRS, a field of research continued today in the world-leading Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology.

Prof Sheena Radford, FRS, FMedSci, Director of the Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology at the University of Leeds commented: “We are so pleased with the result of our recent conference at the University of Leeds. Following the incredible success of the event two years ago, we are extremely keen that the event runs biennially and MEETinLEEDS provided wonderful support to help us put on a perfect event for all. Throughout the event, delegates not only had access to some of the latest science and scientific thinking, but they also extended their professional networks of contacts. They were given the opportunity to discuss future research collaborations, which will help develop upcoming discoveries.”

Harriet Boatwright, Sales & Marketing Manager at MEETinLEEDS, added: “We are delighted that the Astbury Conversation 2018 was so successful again, as we are extremely keen to continue the success and legacy of the event. The University of Leeds provides an ideal environment for world-leading academic conversations, with our venues facilitating just this for the delegates that attended. This included an exciting interactive exhibition held in the Parkinson Court, which gave delegates a real opportunity to get involved and to become inspired. We look forward to welcoming them back in 2020 to continue the conversation!