Welcome message

from the Governor of Salzburg

As Governor of Salzburg, it is my great pleasure to welcome you as participants of the European Muscle Conference 2014. Following the meeting in 1980, this is the second time Salzburg is hosting the European Muscle Conference which has been annually held in a different European city since 1972. The attendance of such a large number of distinguished scientists from all over the world attests to the importance of this congress.

Your chosen field of muscle research has a major role in science. Many basic functions of life were discovered in muscles; for example, the role of electricity in the processes of life was first explored in Luigi Galvani’s experiments with frogs’ legs in 1780.

The program of this congress shows how amazingly diverse muscle research has become today. The studies range from the molecular processes during muscle contraction to cardiomyopathies and neuromuscular diseases. This broad range emphasizes the great importance of muscle research to human society.

This congress will allow your outstanding work to be prominently presented, enabling wide discussion and the generation of new ideas for future projects and collaborations. I am convinced that your congress will be fruitful in many ways and will bring science a step closer to benefiting everyone. I wish to express my great appreciation for the important work you do for society.

In addition to the scientific exchange, the organizers have included special highlights for the social events in the program. One evening, you have the opportunity to enjoy Mozart´s music in the Salzburg Cathedral and on another evening the City and the State of Salzburg will have the pleasure of receiving you as guests for a gala dinner in our Residenz Palace.

I wish you a very successful congress and unforgettable days in our beautiful Salzburg region.

Dr. Wilfried HaslauerGovernor of Salzburg

Welcome to the European Muscle Conference 2014 in Salzburg!

Salzburg is often called the Stage of the World, because music and other arts are presented in a unique historical ambiance. Millions of guests visit Salzburg every year to attend the Salzburg Festival and thousands of other cultural events in theatres, palaces, and churches. Many visitors get in touch with Salzburg´s most famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Salzburg is going to be the Stage of the Muscle World from 10th to 14th September 2014, because of your prominent presence. More than 250 scientists from 30 countries of Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Australia are coming to Salzburg for the European Muscle Conference. More than 210 scientific contributions ranging from basic science to applied science of numerous disciplines will be presented in this conference, and exhibitors will show latest developments of equipment in muscle research.

Almost 40% of the participants are younger than 35 years of age. This circumstance shows that the field is highly attractive and will have a great future. To satisfy the special needs of young investigators, we have arranged a young investigator symposium with guidelines in science and an introduction to muscle research.

A concert in Salzburg Cathedral with Mozart´s music and a Gala Dinner in the Salzburg Residenz Palace are included in the congress program so that you can shift from the scientific stage to the stage of art and culture for relaxation and refreshment.

With my sincere thanks for your coming to Salzburg, and my heartfelt wishes for a fruitful and satisfying conference,

Stefan GallerEMC 2014 Chair Department of Cell BiologyUniversity of Salzburg

Stefan Galler and his right-hand man in congress organization, a PHD student Markus Kröss