The Annual Gibbs Conference on Biothermodynamics started around 1986 and ever since then it has taken place annually at the Touch of Nature Environmental Center in Carbondale, Illinois. Participants of this conference share one thing in common: a passion for understanding the thermodynamic forces that govern macromolecular interactions. And so it is that every year, scientists from various institutions gather at nature filled campgrounds near Little Grassy Lake to discuss the folding of macromolecules, linkage theory, conformational changes, ligand binding and many other topics united by the common interest of understanding these processes to a fundamental level, applying physico-chemical principles to biological systems.
Two other things that define this conference are its emphasis on training and its relaxed atmosphere. The program includes a mixture of talks given by students, postdocs, research associates and PIs. Furthermore, the set up of the conference promotes inter-generational scientific exchange, where PIs, students, postdocs, research associates and industry participants share meals, canoeing rides and conversations along the traditional bonfires at the Little Grassy Lake beach on Sunday and Monday nights. You will find scientists of all career levels discussing thermodynamic ideas all day long and late into the night!
What to Bring?
The average temperature for Carbonale, Illinois around the end of September varies from 45 oF to 75 oF. Hence, it can be cold, especially in the night (and especially in the 8-person cabins). We recommend that you bring some warm clothes or blankets. Also, some parts of the campgrounds at Touch of Nature are very dark at night so we recommend that you bring a flashlight. Finally, you may want to bring a towel as the towels at Touch of Nature may be small (especially if you are assigned to an 8-person cabin). If you are assigned to a cabin, we will notify you ahead of time so you can prepare accordingly!
How to get Here?
Most people fly to St. Louis (STL – St. Louis Lambert International Airport) and drive to Touch of Nature. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and there are various car rental places near St. Louis Airport.
Lodging at Touch of Nature
Touch of Nature Environmental Center is a great venue for the Gibbs Conference and a big reason for the conference great atmosphere is the venue. The rustic style of the cabins, the group meals, the amazing autumn colors, the star-filled skies and the bonfire at the beach all contribute to creating a relaxed atmosphere, away from distractions and very conducive for scientific exchange. However, keep in mind that it is a camp (not a hotel, not a convention center). Come with an open mind, bring comfortable clothes and enjoy your stay at Touch of Nature!
Get more information about Touch of Nature by clicking on the link!
Lodging at Nearby Hotels
Some participants prefer to stay at nearby hotels and drive to the conference in the morning. Here is a list of some nearby lodging options. (Please note that this is an incomplete list. There are more hotels if you search in a hotel booking website.)
Makanda Inn and Cottages (5 miles)
855 Old Lower Cobden Rd, Makanda, IL 62958
(618) 697-7929
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites (8.3 miles)
801 E Main St, Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 457-3347
Super 8 Carbondale (8.2 miles)
1180 E Main, Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 457-8822
Best Western Saluki Inn (7.7 miles)
801 N Giant City Rd, Carbondale, IL 62902
(618) 351-6611
Days Inn & Suites Carbondale (9.9 miles)
1295 Harmony Ln, Carbondale, IL 62902
(618) 529-2720
Hampton Inn Carbondale (9.8 miles)
2175 Reed Station Pkwy, Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 549-6900
Holiday Inn Carbondale (9.4 miles)
2300 Reed Station Pkwy, Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 549-2600
America’s Best Value Inn (8.8 miles)
1700 E. Main Street, Carbondale, IL 62901
(618) 457-5566
Super 8 Inn Anna (13.8 miles)
100 Richview Dr, Anna, IL 62906
(618) 833-1888