The non-equilibrium genome - where Physics meets Biology

International Focus Workshop
07 - 09 April 2026

Biological function relies on coordinated cell behavior, driven by molecular processes involving DNA in the cell nucleus. The 3D genome refers to the hierarchical and organized packing of the meter-long DNA into the nucleus. The 1D genome refers to the functional roles of DNA regions and epigenetic modifications (like methylation) that form a non-equilibrium, dynamic code. The goal of the workshop is to present the mechanisms by which 1D and 3D processes are integrated together, and the consequent emergence of complex spatio-temporal structures in the tight nuclear environment.

Topics include

  • Genome organization
  • Non-equilibrium
  • Epigenetics
  • Statistical physics
  • Genomics
  • Polymer physics
  • Active matter
  • Microscopy
  • Gene regulation
  • Cell fate decisions

Confirmed invited speakers

Banigan, Edward J. (US)
Brackley, Chris (UK)
Choubey, Sandeep (IN)
Cosma, Maria Pia (BR)
Coulon, Antoine (FR)
Goloborodko, Anton (AT)
Goychuk, Andriy (DE)
Gregor, Thomas (US)
Grosberg, Alexander (US)
Howard, Martin (UK)
Maeshima, Kazuhiro (JP)
Patton McCord, Rachel (US)
Peveri, Giulia (IT)
Pombo, Ana (DE)
Raju, Archisman (IN)
Schiessel, Helmut (DE)
Schmit, Jeremy D. (US)
Scialdone, Antonio (DE)
Smrek, Jan (AT)
Thirumalai, Dave (US)
Yun, Maximina (DE)
Zhang, Bin (US)
Zidovska, Alexandra (US)


SUPPORTED BY

Scientific Coordinators

Srinjan Basu
(London, GB)

Buddhapriya Chakrabarti
(Kansas, US)

Angelo Rosa
(Trieste, IT)

Steffen Rulands
(Munich, DE)

Organisation

Kristina Aliabiev

(MPIPKS Dresden)

Poster Download

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Application

Applications are welcome and should be made by using the application form. The application deadline is 31 December 2025. The number of attendees is limited.

The registration fee is 200 Euro and should be paid by all participants, including invited speakers.

Costs for accommodation and meals will be covered by the Max Planck Institute.

Limited funding is available to partially cover travel expenses.

Apply now!

Scientific Program

Program structure:

Monday, 6 April - arrival (recommended)

Tuesday, 7 April - 9 am program start

The detailed program will be available by mid March 2026, approximately.

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How to reach us

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Useful information for your way to the venue.

Contact Institute