Since at least the early Archean, organisms have been major drivers of carbonate formation. The biological processes involved are diverse and vary from organic matter influenced mineralization (organomineralization), through extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) induced mineralization, to enzymatically controlled mineralization. A robust knowledge about these complex processes is of great significance for the geobiological interpretation of distinct carbonate deposits. At the same time, it is important for understanding the patterns of evolutionary and environmental change on our planet as chronicled by carbonate records through deep time. Given that carbonates are also known from beyond Earth, studies on their formation have also direct implications for the search for life elsewhere in the universe. This session welcomes contributions on all aspects of carbonate formation and interpretation – regardless of the perspective and study design.