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Dresden Polymer Discussion 2025 Explores Biomolecular Condensates and Phase Transitions
From May 25 to 28, the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden and TU Dresden jointly hosted the 19th Dresden Polymer Discussion (DPD) in the historic town of Meissen, Germany. Centered on the theme “Biomolecular Condensates and Polymer Phase Transitions,” the conference brought together 95 international scientists from diverse fields including materials science, theoretical physics, molecular biology, and soft matter research.
Set in the atmospheric former bishop's palace, the conference opened with a keynote lecture by Anthony A. Hyman (Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden), who presented the important role of phase separation in cell physiology and disease. Over the three-day program, leading national and international experts—such as Thomas Michaels (ETH Zürich), Miho Yanagisawa (University of Tokyo), Edward Lemke (Institute of Molecular Biology, Mainz), and Jeetain Mittal (Texas A&M University)—joined researchers from Dresden to discuss topics ranging from molecular modeling and chromatin dynamics to synthetic phase-separated systems and disease-related condensates.
The DPD bridged foundational theory with translational research, highlighting the importance of modeling, materials research, and biological function in the study of phase-separated systems. A notable feature of this year’s event was the strong engagement of early-career scientists, who contributed through poster presentations and enriched the multidisciplinary discussions with fresh insights. The scientific sessions were complemented by cultural activities, including a visit to the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory, offering participants a connection to the region’s rich heritage.
Held biennially, the DPD is recognized for its rotating thematic focus on cutting-edge topics at the intersection of polymer science and related disciplines.
The IPF extends its gratitude to all participants, speakers, and sponsors for contributing to the success of the 19th DPD, and we look forward to welcoming the polymer community back to Saxony for the 20th edition.
06.06.2025