This long-standing Gordon Research Conference has been held on a triennial basis since 1976 and has served as a major, yet intimate, venue where scientists interested in all aspects of the "carbon-side" of photosynthesis discuss some of the most exciting and pressing issues facing the field. The Conference has strong international representation maintained in part by alternating between sites inside and outside the U.S. In 2014, we are pleased to have the inaugural Gordon Research Seminar for our GRC immediately preceding the main meeting, which provides a unique opportunity for post-docs and graduate students to network, present research, and interact with established scientists. The 2014 GRC on CO2 assimilation will occur shortly after the atmospheric CO2 concentration has passed the landmark value of 400 ppm and as effects of climate change are becoming more pronounced. Pressures on food and fuel supplies, and on ecosystem function are increasing, generating a growing recognition that understanding and improving photosynthesis is essential to address and mitigate these challenges. Major international initiatives to improve photosynthesis are underway, making this an exciting time for the field. Topics covered at the meeting will include fundamental research on photosynthesis, including the regulation, partitioning, and engineering of carbon assimilation, and an understanding of environmental impacts on function over multiple through time scales. Approaches range from post-genomic technologies and systems biology through fundamental biochemistry, physiology and molecular biology integrated within ecological and agronomic contexts. Conferees range from beginning graduate students and postdoctoral associates to leading senior plant scientists. A number of "hot off the press" findings by both established and early career scientists will be chosen from the submitted abstracts.