The XXIIIrd Phage/Virus Assembly Meeting

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The Phage/Virus Assembly (PVA) meeting, originating in 1968, reconvened in Lake Arrowhead, CA in 2013.
• The meeting historically focused on bacteriophages but expanded to include all viruses.
• It is characterized by an egalitarian format, valuing all participants' contributions equally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize key scientific discussions and themes from the XXIIIrd PVA meeting.
• To highlight the enduring appeal and collaborative spirit within the virus assembly research community.
• To provide insights into the current state of virus research as presented at the meeting.

Main Methods:

• The abstract does not detail specific research methods but focuses on the meeting's structure and atmosphere.
• Discussions covered fundamental questions in phage and virus assembly.
• Presentations followed an egalitarian format, allotting equal time to all speakers, regardless of seniority.

Main Results:

• The 2013 meeting attracted new and international participants, indicating the field's vitality.
• Animated discussions on basic scientific questions were a key feature.
• The event fostered a sense of community, camaraderie, and shared enthusiasm for virus research.

Conclusions:

• The Phage/Virus Assembly meeting continues to be a significant event for the virology community.
• The egalitarian format promotes open scientific exchange and collaboration.
• The field of virus assembly remains dynamic and engaging, attracting diverse researchers.