We are delighted to organise, on behalf of the Human Genome Organisation (HUGO), the next HGM meeting in Montpellier in May 2010.

Through an extraordinary international effort, scientists have sequenced the genome of plants, animals, microorganisms and humans. Comparative genomics opens new windows into the evolutionary mechanisms underlying genetic variation, adaptation and speciation. New sequencing and array technologies have revealed an unanticipated level of genomic structural variation, which has led to the discovery of DNA signatures for a growing number of diseases, while genome-wide association studies have begun identifying variants predisposing to common multifactorial diseases. Impressive progress has already been made in deciphering genetic, epigenetic and environmental contributions to disease risk.

We are living through an unprecedented era of progress in bioinformatics and biotechnology, and the "genomics revolution" is transforming health research. The new tools it provides will generate an entirely different type of health care, one that is predictive, preventive, participative and personalised ("P4 medicine"). We will see new ways of diagnosing diseases and new ways of thinking about disease prevention and health promotion. In terms of genomics-based medicine, knowing who we are will allow better targeting of cures.

We aim to bring together senior and junior investigators, postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers and the most famous world experts in genomics and in genetics to share basic and translational research as well as educational and social issues. In addition, updates on research will be highlighted for epigenetic, non-coding RNAs, pharmacogenetics, and therapy for genetic disorders. HGM2010 also aims to promote communication between participants to address some of the most pressing educational, ethical, legal and social questions raised by recent advances in genetic and genomic research.

The University of Montpellier is one of the oldest in the world, founded in 1160, and the Mediterranean climates as well as the reputation of hospitality and open-mindedness of the region are attractive to students (85,000 among a global population of 500,000). Montpellier, the "scientific city", is famous for research activity (5,000 researchers), particularly in life sciences, agronomics and chemistry. It is also the 5th largest University Hospital in France and number one for Medical Conferences.

The Congress Centre (the Corum) is ideally situated in the attractive, pedestrianised town centre. Montpellier, capital of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, is a very pleasant place. Wander through its mediaeval streets lined with shops, bars and restaurants, visit one of the richest fine arts collections in Europe. The beaches of the Mediterranean are only 10 km away; you have the beautiful and famous Camargue and the stunning Millau bridge nearby and the region includes five of the most prestigious UNESCO world heritage sites.

Mireille Claustres
Chair, HGM2010