Conference Overview
Join us on September 4-5, 2025 at Stanford University for the Stanford Fermented Food Conference, a two-day event bringing together researchers, industry professionals, and fermentation enthusiasts to explore the latest in food fermentation science. The conference will feature cutting-edge research talks, discussions on microbial ecology, metabolomics, and health impacts, as well as opportunities for networking and collaboration.
Conference sessions will include:
- Keynote Address
Rob Dunn: “Cultivating Mutualism with Other Species: Responding to the Call of the Honeyguide and the Stink of the Bacillus” - Lessons from Microbial Ecology
Benjamin Wolfe, Veronica SInotte, and Chantle Switchkow - Lessons from Microbial Communication
Arielle Johnson, Mikaela Kasperek, and Elisa Caffrey - Lessons from Microbial and Human Evolution
Matthew Carrigan and Christina Warinner - Lessons from the Gut Microbiome
Paul Cotter, Sean Spencer, and Niccolò Carlino - Lessons from Understudied and Novel Ferments
Aviaja Hauptmann, Joshua Evans, and Erica Sonnenburg - Future of Fermented Foods and Sustainability
Vayu Hill-Maini and Ramon Perisé Moré - Future of Fermented Foods and Health
Maria Marco, Dalia Perelman, and Elizabeth Schenider - Closing Address
David Zilber
While the focus is on scientific research, we welcome applications from anyone working in or passionate about food fermentation. Applications are open through May 15, 2025.
Online Application
While we hope to expand the conference in future years, space is limited to 150 participants this year, and is by application only.
Cost
If accepted, the cost to attend the conference will depend on your professional status:
- Students: $200
- Chefs, food artisans, and community practitioners: $200
- General admission (including industry professionals and academics): $600
If you are unsure which category you fall into, feel free to include a note in your application—we’re happy to work with you to ensure this conference remains accessible to all corners of the fermentation world. Travel grants will also be available. Please let us know in the online application if you need a travel grant.
Poster Session
We encourage attendees to showcase their fermented food projects by submitting an abstract for consideration as a poster. There will be poster prizes for our best posters!
Poster abstract submissions are part of the conference application process. Selected poster presenters will be notified at the same time as notifications of the conference acceptance.
Location
James H. Clark Center
318 Campus Drive
Stanford, CA 94305
Campus Map
Visit this link for a Stanford campus searchable map.
Travel & Accommodations
Learn how to get to the Clark Center at Stanford and explore nearby lodging options for your visit here.
Event Organizers
This event is being organized by Elisa Caffrey, David Zilber, and Justin Sonnenburg