Research in the last two decades has provided solid experimental evidence that multivalent interactions between biopolymers such as DNA, RNA and proteins are a driving force for non-deterministic assemblies, including condensates that form by phase separation. This notion has reshaped how we understand and study cellular organization and biological mechanisms. The new research concept of biomolecular condensation has changed how life scientists think about and approach biological problems. Moreover, this paradigm has taught us that understanding polymers can spark the discovery of polymer-centric mechanisms underlying cellular function. However, the ability to phase separate is just one property that is intrinsic to a polymer. We believe that other fundamental properties and polymer concepts wait to be brought into the spotlight as well. At the same time, biological complexity can inspire fundamental polymer research. This interplay between the polymer and the molecular life sciences is the primary mission of the Collaborative Research Centre (www.crc1551.com) on “Polymer Concepts in Cellular Function”.

In this first international conference on this topic, we aim to bring together life scientists and polymer scientists, to combine experiment and theory, and create a venue that showcases how polymer concepts can be used to understand cellular function. Research contributions from invited speakers, selected speakers and participants from the Collaborative Research Centre will share new mechanistic insights across the whole spectrum of cell and molecular biology that are inspired by polymer concepts. The conference will highlight how life science questions pose new challenges and push frontiers in polymer science forward, and how novel polymer concepts and technologies can be developed to solve fundamental questions about cellular function.