The 2013 Gordon Research Conference on Calcium Signaling will bring together the world’s leading researchers in this vibrant field at Il Ciocco Hotel in Tuscany, Italy. This spectacular site is located on two thousand acres of a natural park and provides an excellent setting for formal lectures and informal out-of-session discussions. The meeting will focus on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of calcium signaling together with the downstream physiological and pathological consequences of activation of these pathways. Specifically, the program will feature sessions focused on our current understanding of basic mechanisms including the role of intracellular and plasma membrane Ca2+ channels, the function of mitochondria in responding to, and shaping Ca2+ signals, and cross-talk between Ca2+ signaling and other signal transduction cascades. Sessions will also be devoted to the role of Ca2+ signals in controlling tissue-specific functions, including muscle contraction, exocytosis, and cell fate decisions. In addition, dedicated sessions will address the role of aberrant calcium signals in the pathogenesis of human diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and neurodegeneration. Notably, an exciting session is planned addressing the long-standing controversy of calcium store dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease. Informal afternoon sessions will allow all participants to present their work in a premier environment and to interact closely with prominent investigators in the field. Several poster presenters, including those with late-breaking findings will be invited to present short talks. Importantly, following the very successful experience of 2011, a Gordon Research Seminar will precede the meeting, providing students and postdocs with a forum to discuss current research results and interact with other scientists with similar experience levels and interests in a non-intimidating environment.