The Charles Helmstetter Prize

The bacterial cell cycle is crucial to microbial physiology, impacting fields like host-microbe interactions and synthetic biology. Understanding this process not only illuminates bacterial cell functions, but also generates implications for industrial biotechnology, human health and the origins of life.

Charles E. Helmstetter's seminal contributions, spanning decades of dedicated research and innovation from the 1960s to the close of the 20th century, not only laid the groundwork for modern investigations into bacterial cell physiology, but also set a standard of excellence that continues to inspire researchers today. The Charles E. Helmstetter Prize stands as a testament to the profound impact of his pioneering work in advancing our understanding of the bacterial cell cycle. Recipients of the prize not only receive recognition for their innovative work but also contribute to the ongoing advancement of scientific understanding in this vital field. In 2022, the prize was awarded to Dr Philip C Hanawalt, Dr Moselio Schaechter and Dr Conrad L Woldringh in Ein Gedi, Israel.

In 2025, the winner of The Charles E. Helmstetter Prize will be chosen from distinguished candidates and announced at the Microbial Physiology Workshop Deciphering Microbial Physiology: Mass Growth, DNA Replication, Nucleoid Segregation, and Cell Division.

About the Workshop

This Microbial Physiology Workshop will explore the mechanisms of bacterial cell growth, replication, and division, crucial for understanding bacterial physiology and synthesizing artificial cells. It will focus on:

Fundamental principles underlying key events and processes in bacterial cell cycle

Spatio-temporal coordination of these events and processes

Environmental modulation of coordination

New experimental, computational, and theoretical methods

Committee

Venue & Transport

Venue(TBD)

Guangming Science City

Transportation

By Air

The nearest airport is Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi directly to Guangming Science City(光明区-永创路与羌下一路交汇处西北侧)

By Car

Attendees can also choose to drive to the venue and will be able to park on site.

Visa

Generally, foreign nationals need to have a valid visa to visit mainland China. Non-commerce visa (F type) , Tourist Visa (L Type) and multi-year multiple-entry valid visas are all valid.

If you are going to apply for Non-commerce visa (F type) and need a formal invitation letter, please complete and return the attached template below to us via email: microb.physiol2025@siat.ac.cn

According to the bilateral agreements between China and foreign countries, citizens of some countries who meet requirements set out in the bilateral agreements may enter China without a visa. Mutual Visa Exemption List: http://cs.mfa.gov.cn/zlbg/bgzl/lhqz/201202/t20120207_961630.shtml

Due to the uncertainty of visa-free policy, you are highly recommended to check with the relevant Chinese Embassy or Consulate General for specific information.

As the demand of Chinese visas has increased significantly, some application procedures may have been changed and applicants are required to go to the consulate in person. Please check the updated information and submit your visa application about two months before your planned travel date in China.

Accomodation

Hotel

TBD

Address

Travel Tips for Shenzhen in June

The average temperature is 27℃ to 33℃(81℉ to 91℉). It is recommended to wear the following types of clothing:

  • T-shirts

Contact

Email:microb.physiol2025@siat.ac.cn

Microbial Physiology Workshop & Charles Helmstetter Prize 2025