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[3211iccanobif]

As a new PhD student at a European university, I am attending an international conference to dive further into my research area. A professor who will be also attending teaches a fascinating graduate class on a relevant topic back in the USA. Would it be inappropriate for me to ask about his class – what texts I should read on this topic and if I could borrow his instructional ppts for personal study?

[untenured]

I can't see why not.  The worst the professor can say is 'no'.  He might even be flattered by the request.

[tuxedo_cat]

Yes, it's perfectly fine to strike up a conversation and ask for suggestions!  This is called "networking" : )

I would advise you *not* to ask for the ppts, however, unless this sort of exchange is very common in your discipline.  Some people see those as intellectual property and would find the request a little impertinent.  If you'd like to tell us what your discipline is, you might get more precise advice on this matter.

[infopri]

I'd be careful about asking for the powerpoints, but the rest is fine--perfectly appropriate and even somewhat expected at conferences.  That's part of what networking is all about.  If the conversation is going well and the professor seems forthcoming, you can say something like "I'd love to see some of your teaching materials--if you're willing to share them," but be aware that some people will not react well to this.  Also, don't forget that a lot of people don't have PowerPoint slides.  I use them when I teach online, for example, but I never use them in a physical classroom.

[3211iccanobif]

Thank you for the input so far everyone. To clarify, I am in the realm of Biological Physics.