Biogenic hydrocarbon emissions from terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are critical in ecology and plant physiology, from abiotic and biotic stress functions to integrated components of metabolism. Microorganisms also contribute by producing and taking up biogenic hydrocarbons in the environment. New research advances uncover the importance of biogenic hydrocarbons in the climate system, from new particle formation in the clean atmosphere to plant geo-engineering and land-based climate change mitigation. The 2018 Biogenic Hydrocarbons and the Atmosphere Gordon Research Conference will focus on linkages between biogenic hydrocarbon emissions, the carbon cycle, atmospheric chemistry and the climate system, with the goal of fostering an improved understanding of biogenic hydrocarbons in the Earth system climate sensitivity. The conference will bring together a collection of investigators who are at the forefront of their field, and will provide opportunities for junior scientists and graduate students to present their work and exchange ideas with established senior scientists. The collegial and inter-disciplinary atmosphere of this Conference, with programmed discussion sessions, as well as opportunities for informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings, provides an excellent venue for scientists from a diversity of disciplines to brainstorm and connect in an effort to support existing and develop new collaborations across scientific fields.
New to the program of the 2018 Conference is a Gordon Research Seminar on June 9-10, 2018, preceding the conference. This seminar will provide an additional forum for early career researchers in the field to establish networks, and exchange new data and cutting edge ideas.