Exploring the Future of Fermentation Technology at Okayama University's Upcoming Symposium

Exploring the Future of Fermentation Technology

The 4th Symposium on Japanese fermentation technology will take place on October 31, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Organized by the Okayama University Microbial Industry Course, this significant event focuses on the theme "Bringing Japanese Fermentation Techniques to the World—Exploring the Essence of Koji Mold and Solid Culture."

Event Details

The symposium will be held in a hybrid format allowing both in-person and online participation. The physical venue is the Okayama Medical Association Miki Memorial Hall, located at 19-2, Ekimae-machi, Kita-ku, Okayama. Participants can choose to join the sessions online as well.

Schedule

- 1:00 PM - 1:10 PM: Opening Remarks by Prof. Yoshitomo Nasu, President of Okayama University.
- 1:10 PM - 1:20 PM: Keynote Speech by Ms. Kana Fujiwara, Vice President of Fujiwara Techno-Art Co., Ltd.

The keynote presentations will feature:

- 1:20 PM - 2:00 PM: "Expanding the Uses of Koji Fermentation Overseas" by Takahiro Sato, President of SAN-J International, Inc..
- 2:05 PM - 2:35 PM: "Understanding the Diverse Functions Hidden in Koji Mold—Toward the Comprehension and Utilization of Solid Culture" presented by Junichi Maruyama, Professor at the University of Tokyo.

Discussions and Panels

Following the presentations, a comprehensive discussion will take place from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM with a panel consisting of experts:

- Takahiro Sato (SAN-J International, Inc.),
- Junichi Maruyama (University of Tokyo),
- Mizusaemon Murai (Bioch Co., Ltd.),
- Masahiro Kariyama (Fujiwara Techno-Art Co., Ltd.),
- Katsuya Gomi (Tohoku University).

Hiroshi Kanzaki, Specially Appointed Professor at Okayama University, will serve as the coordinator for this session.

The closing remarks will be provided by Yasushi Mori, Dean of the Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science at Okayama University.

Audience and Registration

The event targets individuals interested in solid culture of koji mold and aims to attract 300 participants for the in-person event. Online attendance is also encouraged.

Admission Fee

Participation in the symposium is free of charge.

To register, please complete the online form available at: Registration Form

Additional Resources

For further information, you can explore:

The symposium highlights Okayama University’s commitment to advancing fermentation technology and sharing Japanese expertise on a global stage. With its significant alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this initiative exemplifies the university's role in fostering innovation and collaboration.

Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the exciting world of fermentation, network with professionals, and discuss the future possibilities that fermentation technology can unlock for various industries.