The grant supports junior scientists' participation in the 2004 Gordon Conference on Nuclear Chemistry. The objective of the Gordon Research Conference on Nuclear Chemistry is to provide the international community of nuclear scientists with a unique forum where the most recent developments in this field can be presented, discussed and criticized. The emphasis in this year's Conference is placed on central nuclear reactions, with a particular attention devoted to the role of flavors in nuclear dynamics. Flavor is what distinguishes neutrons from protons in an atomic nucleus and the nucleons from some more exotic particles.
The agenda of this Conference provokes new ideas for future research, in ensuring that discussions facilitate vigorous and open interactions between scientists. This requires the participation of a significant number of the leaders, including both internationally recognized senior scientists and the young and rising stars. Bright and promising postdoctoral researchers and graduate students are selected for participation in this Conference and encouraged to present their ideas. Their participation provides them with unique and extensive access to the leaders in their field, exposes them to new research opportunities and techniques and helps prepare them for the leadership roles they will assume in the future. Some of the young scientists have been invited to present talks. For others, poster sessions are organized to provide a forum for their ideas, with best displays additionally selected for oral presentations.
